The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019 The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline provides a list of key events, policy and legislative changes that have occurred in Australia between 1985 and 31 December 2019. Events are listed by jurisdiction, at the federal and state/ territory level. The first table includes events at the federal level. Events in the state and territories are split into two parts. The second table includes events from the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. Events from South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia are listed in the third table. The timeline will continue to be updated bi-annually. Please email through comments or suggested inclusions. Suggested citation: Hughes, Caitlin. (2020). The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019, Drug Policy Modelling Program, UNSW and Centre for Crime Policy and Research, Flinders University. Last updated 15 January 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.arts.unsw.edu.au/sprc/research/drug-policy-modelling-program/drug-policy-timeline

Year Federal

2019 Large increase in peak bodies – including the Australian Medical Association, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine and the Ambulance Union State Council - formally endorsing a pill testing trial (Jan-Feb). QandA host a special episode on pill testing, drug law reform and drug policy. Panelists included Dr Marianne Jauncey, Dr David Caldicott, Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith, Former AFP Police Commissioner Mick Palmer and Kerryn Redpath (Feb 18). New report released: “Alcohol and other drug use in regional and remote Australia: consumption, harms and access to treatment” in the aim of identifying trends in alcohol and other drug use in Regional and remote Australia. It showed that A) people living in Regional and remote areas of Australia were more likely than people living in Major cities to have consumed alcohol at quantities that placed them at risk of harm from an alcohol-related disease or injury; B) Levels of recent drug use were similar between remoteness areas, however the type of illicit drug used varied, with much more use of ecstasy and cocaine in cities and more use of cannabis in very remote regions; c) The burden increased with remoteness: Remote and Very remote areas experienced 2.1 and 2.7 times, respectively, the burden of disease attributable to alcohol use, compared with Major cities in 2011 and over the past decade, the rate of drug-induced deaths has increased at a faster rate in Regional and remote areas, up 41% since 2008, compared with a 16% increase in Major cities; D) Agencies in Remote and very remote areas had the highest rate of clients who sought treatment; and E) Clients who sought treatment in Regional and remote areas were more likely than clients in Major cities to travel 1 hour or longer to treatment services over the same period (Mar). Commonwealth Department of Health announced $20 million to support GPS and other allied health professionals in regional and remote Australia to access professional development and specialist skills in addiction medicine (Mar). Scott Morrison elected as Prime Minister: with a minority Liberal/National Coalition Government (May). New data released: “Trends in substance use among Australian secondary school students 1996–2017.” This showed that use of alcohol among secondary students in Australia has declined since the 2000s, most markedly among those aged 12 to 15, and that in general use of illicit drugs has also declined. The main exception is cannabis and ecstasy (May). New research by Hughes et al released: “Criminal justice responses relating to personal use and possession of illicit drugs: The reach of Australian drug diversion programs and barriers and facilitators to expansion.” This found Australian police divert 55% offenders with a principal offence of use/possession away from courts, and that the biggest determinant of access to diversion is the state in which someone lives – as only 32% offenders in WA were diverted compared to 98% in SA. It outlined unanimous support for expanding diversion in Australia and 10 steps to do this, including a) ensuring all jurisdictions (particularly NSW & Qld) provide diversion for all illicit drugs, 2) switching from a discretionary to legislative models, such as the South Australian Police Drug Diversion Initiative, or a hybrid legislative & 3) considering newer models of therapeutic diversion delivery e.g. online versus face to face (Jun). The ACIC received an extra $4.8 billion to extend wastewater analysis for 4 years in Australia (until June 2023) (Jun). New report published: National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program Report 7. This compared wastewater analysis results from Australia for 2018 against data from 25 other countries across Europe, USA, Canada and South Africa. This showed that Australia ranked second highest in terms of combined stimulant use after the USA taking into account use of amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine and MDMA. The next highest countries were the Netherlands, Iceland and Canada (at 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively). Australia was also second for methylamphetamine (behind USA) and MDMA (behind Netherlands) specifically, but reported relatively low cocaine consumption (ranked at 17th) (Jun). New report published: “Illicit Drug Data Report 2017-18.” This showed that in 2017–18, there were 112,827 drug seizures and 30.6 tonnes of illicit drugs seized nationally. The weight of illicit drugs seized nationally has increased 130.0 per cent over the last decade, from 13.3 tonnes in 2008–09 to a record 30.6 tonnes in 2017–18. ATS remained the second most seized illicit drugs (11,205kg). There were 148,373 recorded illicit drug offences in 2017-18 (154,650 in 2016-17) of which 90.3% = consumer and 9.7% = provider arrests. The number of clan labs continued to decrease from 463 in 2016-17 to 432 in 2017-18. Most were for meth/amphetamine but 22 laboratories were detected in 2017–18 producing GHB/GBL and 20 laboratories detected producing MDMA the highest number reported in the last decade (Jul). The Penington Institute released a new report: “Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2019.” This analysed overdose deaths from 2001 until 2017. It showed: in 2017 there were 1,612 unintentional drug-induced deaths in Australia = > four unintentional drug-induced deaths per day, or one death every 5.4 hours; the no. of unintentional drug-induced deaths has increased significantly over the past 15 years, from 981 in 2001 to 1,612 in 2017 (a 64.3% increase) – outstripping both the rate of population growth (27.8%) and number of deaths due to the road-toll (1,246 in 2017); the rate of unintentional drug-induced deaths continues to increase in rural and regional Australia, with a 24% between 2011 to 2017 vs a 5% increase in capital cities; and opioids were the drug group most commonly identified in unintentional drug-induced deaths in 2017 (involved in 904 deaths, of which 358 = heroin and 344 = oxycodone / morphine / codeine), followed by benzodiazepines (involved in 583 deaths). But, analysis of trends showed a significant rise in deaths involving two main drug types: a) heroin and b) stimulants (including methamphetamine) (Aug). An Audit of the Commonwealth Department of Health achievements under the National Ice Action Strategy showed limited progress: “While Australian Government funding to the alcohol and other drug sector has increased and actions have progressed, there is no monitoring to assess whether progress is being made toward the Strategy’s goal of reducing the prevalence

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 1 of ice use and resulting harms across the Australian community. This reflects that the department does not have an evaluation approach in place for the National Ice Action Strategy and is not monitoring any progress towards the goals and objective” (Sep). Social Services Legislation Amendment (Drug Testing Trial) Bill 2019 introduced – the third iteration of the welfare drug testing provisions (11 Sep). Bill passed the house of representatives but not the senate (17 Oct). New NDARC report released: “Australian Drug Trends 2019: Key Findings from the Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) Interviews.” This found use of most illicit drugs was stable. 55% reported using heroin in 2019 compared to 54% in 2018 and 78% reported use of methamphetamine compared to 77% in 2018. The median price of heroin nationally was $350 for one gram, significantly higher than the median price in 2018 ($280). In contrast, the median price of crystal methamphetamine recorded in 2019 was the lowest recorded since 2003 ($260) and a significant decrease from $300 in 2018, and a further decrease from 2014 - $500 (Oct). New NDARC report released: “Australian Drug Trends 2019: Key Findings from the Ecstasy and Related Drug Reporting System (EDRS) Interviews.” This showed recent use of ecstasy pills continued to fall (67% vs 75% in 2018) while recent use of ecstasy caps rose (77% in 2019 versus 72% in 2018). There was a significant increase in median days of ecstasy cap use from 6 days in 2018 to 8 days in 2019 (13% reported weekly use compared to 8% in 2018) and the median cost of an ecstasy capsule decreased from $25 in 2018 to $20 in 2019-the lowest median reporting price since reporting began in 2008. Cocaine use increased from 2017 to 2018 to 2019 (48% to 59% to 67%), with the largest per cent of participants reporting recent use since monitoring began. (This was particularly in NSW, Vic and SA). Recent use of methamphetamine was stable in the last 3 years (33%) with 18% consuming crystal (Oct). A new nasal spray form of naloxone – a life-saving antidote medicine used to treat a narcotic overdose in an emergency situation – was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Until this form naloxone was only available in injectable forms, but the PBS listing of the nasal spray was intended to provide easier administration of this overdose antidote for people suffering an overdose and first responders, and to thus help save lives. The new format would cost <$6.50 per script versus >$48 without subsidy (1 Nov). Home Affairs release new Illicit Drug Action Plan with principal focus on ice. Notes strong demand, along with high domestic prices, provides a lucrative market for criminal groups. Also notes the devastating impacts across communities, particularly in regional, rural and remote areas and the significant challenge in tackling the methylamphetamine market due to its diverse supply. Notes some goals from 2015 have been achieved e.g. national dob in a dealer campaign, and others remain ongoing including consistent national precursor regulations and disrupting production and supply to rural and regional communities. Key strategies going forward: significantly expanding ABF saturation of mail, reviewing Cth laws, expanding gang squads, and more strategic AFP liaison in Sth East Asia (Nov 2019). An update to the National Quality Framework for Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services (National Quality Framework) was released. This now includes strengthened clinical governance requirements and a list of accreditation standards specialist treatment service providers must meet (Nov). National Framework for Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Treatment 2019‐2029 (The Framework) released. The Framework enables a shared strategic vision of the drug and alcohol treatment system and facilitates coordinated planning to provide the context for national and state and territory processes, programs and policies. The framework includes: Principles for effective treatment; Principles for effective treatment planning, purchasing and resourcing; and Principles for monitoring, evaluation and research. Re effective treatment this notes that all treatment in Australia should be a) person-centred, b) evidence-informed, c) equitable and accessible, d) non-judgmental, e) culturally responsive and f) holistic and coordinated. For example, every Australian should have an equal opportunity and right to seek and receive alcohol or other drug treatment at a time, location, cost, and treatment type that suits their needs and Australian alcohol and other drug treatment services should work closely with general health, mental health, social welfare and other relevant services to provide a holistic approach to treatment to address any co-occurring mental health, physical or social needs. Re effective treatment planning, purchasing and resourcing this notes that responsibility for planning and coordinating the availability and accessibility of alcohol and other drug treatment resides with both federal and state/territory governments and that siloed planning, purchasing and resourcing can result in treatment gaps and planning duplication. Key principles are thus to: a) engage all funders of AOD treatment, as well as funders and planners of other systems of care that impact on AOD treatment; b) engage all other stakeholders, including service providers, clients of treatment and their significant others, peak bodies, and community representatives; c) identify gaps, priority groups, and areas of emerging need, within the jurisdictional and regional context; d) take into account medium-term and long-term horizon; and e) take into account the capability and capacity of the workforces and the need for other services (health, social welfare, etc.) (Dec). Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Take Home Naloxone pilot commenced in NSW, SA and WA. This aimed to improve access and uptake of naloxone, by providing it for free and without a prescription, from a wide variety of locations including community and hospital-based pharmacies, alcohol and other drug treatment centres, needle and syringe programs, custodial release programs, first responders (police) and GP clinics. Plot commenced 1 December 2019 and will run through to 28 February 2021, with a final report expected in mid-2021 (Dec). New research released: “Trends in drug-induced deaths in Australia, 1997-2018”. This examined deaths relating to illicit drugs specifically – and excluded any related to alcohol or tobacco. The analysis showed there were 1,740 drug-induced deaths among Australians in 2018. The rate of deaths per 100,000 population has been increasing since 2006 but remains lower than the peak in 1999. Opioids were the main drug cited in drug-induced deaths (1,129 deaths in 2018) (Dec). New research released: “Trends in drug-related hospitalisations in Australia, 1999-2018.” This showed there were 60,627 drug-related hospital separations among Australians in 2017- 18, equivalent to 0.5% of all hospital separations in Australia and that this was most common amongst those aged 20-29. In 2017-18 the greater proportion of drug-related hospital separations was attributable to amphetamines and other stimulants (57 hospitalisations per 100,000 people, 23% of drug-related hospitalisations), compared to 14% opioids. The rate of amphetamine-related hospitalization has further increased significantly since 2009 - 57 versus 13 separations per 100,000 people and 43% were for psychosis (Dec). 2018 New research released by Gabrielle Todd et al “Adults with a history of illicit amphetamine use exhibit abnormal substantia nigra morphology and parkinsonism.” This showed a) that illicit use of amphetamines in Australian adults was associated with abnormal substantia nigra morphology and subtle clinical signs of parkinsonism, b) that such changes were not observed in other control groups (e.g. groups that only used cannabis or ecstasy) and c) that these abnormalities were observed in adults with an average age of 30 years who had normal memory and cognition, used methamphetamine as little as five or more times, and been abstinent from methamphetamine for an average of two years. The results support epidemiological findings linking use of methamphetamine with increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease later in life (Jan). The Hon. Dan Tehan MP, Minister for Social Services, re-introduced a second iteration of a bill on welfare drug testing – Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2018. The bill proposed to establish a mandatory drug testing trial of 5000 recipients of Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance (Other) in three specified locations - Canterbury- Bankstown, New South Wales; Logan, Queensland and Mandurah, Western Australia (28 Feb).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 2 New research released: “The methamphetamine market: Police detainee perspectives.” This research, based on interviews with 4,400 police detainees in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Sydney found that in 2015-16 58% of police detainees reported they used methamphetamine in the last 12 months (compared to 29% in 2010) and that 42% reported being dependent on the drug. Recent methamphetamine users reported consuming 14 days out of the last 30 days, using an average of 3 times a day and a quantity of 0.4 grams i.e. 1.2g per day (Apr). Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs held a second inquiry into Social Services Legislation Amendment (Drug Testing Trial) Bill 2018. This led to two public hearings in Bass Hill NSW and Logan QLD and receipt of 29 public submissions (Mar-May). Bill by Senator David Leyonhjelm, Liberal Democratic Party, proposed to remove Commonwealth barriers to the legalisation and taxation of cannabis, with no restrictions on the production or advertising of cannabis (May). Australian Greens proposed to legalise cannabis for adult use in a tightly regulated market. Key proposals include a) establishment of an Australian Cannabis Agency that would be act as a single wholesaler, and issue all licenses for production and sale, b) retail sales outlets with strict age limits, requirements for plain packaging and bans on all advertising and c) options for cultivation for personal use (May). The Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum endorsed the National Quality Framework (NQF) for Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services. Ministers noted the implementation of the NQF will set a nationally consistent quality benchmark which consumers can expect from drug and alcohol treatment providers, both government and non-government funded. Arrangements for the NQF include: • Government funded treatment service providers will be required to comply with the NQF, through contractual and/or jurisdictional arrangements. • Providers not receiving government funding will be required to meet the NQF through regulatory or other processes as determined by jurisdictions as appropriate (Jun). Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum established an Opioid Issues Working Group, with the access and availability of Naloxone in Australia the first issue to be examined (Jun). New national approval process for medical cannabis unveiled: replacing dual approval process via states and Commonwealth, with singe nationally consistent online access pathway via TGA (Jul). The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs (NCCRED) was established to support clinical research into new treatment options, training of health professionals and evaluating treatment effectiveness for people using methamphetamine or other emerging drugs of concern. This is a consortium led by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, with the National Drug Research Institute, the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction and St Vincent’s Health Australia and directed by Dr Nadine Ezard (Sep). The Cth Department of Health provided funding to expand the Victorian Ambulance Project to establish and maintain a National Surveillance System for Alcohol and other Drug Misuse and Overdose.

2017 The Cracks in the Ice website was launched, to provide publicly accessible, factual and evidence-based information for community groups, local councils, concerned parents and friends, teachers, students and frontline service providers relating to ice. A smartphone app was developed in Jan 2018 (Apr). First round of 40 Local Drug Action Teams (LDAT) - one key recommendation of the National Ice Taskforce - announced across Australia. The LDATs are supported by the Australian Drug Foundation and seek to develop locally focused and responsive action plans to reduce the impact of drugs, with a particular focus on the drug ice. They involve local councils, service providers, police, sporting groups, and NGOs and use a range of strategies such as local health promotion, community-led education and mentoring, early intervention and prevention programs. 220 LDAT were promised over 3 years (Mar). First national wastewater report released: covering 51 sites (12 in Qld, 10 in NSW, 8 SA and 7 Vic) and 54% of the Australian population. Confirmed methylamphetamine had the highest consumed illicit drug tested across all regions in Australia (Cannabis was not included in testing). Also showed high levels at several regional sites including in Qld, Vic and Tas (Mar). National cost-effectiveness evaluation “Australian police diversion for cannabis offences: Assessing program outcomes and cost-effectiveness” found that cannabis expiation and cannabis caution were six to 15 times cheaper than provision of a traditional criminal justice response (charge) for cannabis use/possess offences, without leading to increased drug use or subsequent offending (Jun). New bill debated: Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017. Schedule 12 of this bill proposed to introduce a mandatory drug testing trial for 5000 new recipients of Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance and that any trial participants who test positive to a specified illicit drug (methamphetamine, cannabis, opioids) would be subject to income management for a period of 24 months and may be required to submit to drug treatment. The bill was referred the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee (the committee) for inquiry and report by 4 September 2017 (22 Jun). The National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline became operational and is one of the resources promoted through the National Drugs Campaign, providing direct access to information, counselling support and services (Jul). Penington Institute released a new report: “Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2016.” This analysed overdose deaths from 2004 until 2014 and showed: • Deaths due to accidental overdose grew substantially from 705 to 1,137 between 2004 and 2014: a 61% increase. • Contrary to stereotypes Australians aged 40-49 were the most likely to die of a drug overdose. • Large increases in overdose deaths in rural and regional were driving the overall increase. • WA was the worst state for overdose deaths per capita with 5.8 per 100,000 in 2014 followed by NSW with 5.1 per 100,000 (Jul). National Drug Strategy 2017-2026 released: first decade long drug strategy. The central objective remained harm minimisation: to build safe, healthy and resilient Australian communities through preventing and minimising alcohol, tobacco and other drug-related health, social, cultural and economic harms among individuals, families and communities, with the strategy noting “this consistent approach to the national drug policy framework has earned high international regard for its progressive, balanced and comprehensive approach and has made considerable achievements.” Key priority actions included: a) enhancing access to evidence-informed, effective and affordable treatment services and support; b) developing new data collections and sharing data and research that supports evidence-informed approaches and early warning of emerging priorities; c) increasing participatory processes that facilitate collaboration between government, the community and non-government sector; and d) enhancing systems to facilitate greater diversion into health interventions from the Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 3 criminal justice system, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people and other at-risk populations who may be experiencing disproportionate harm (Sep). The Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee (the committee) inquiry into the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017 received 63 submissions and held two public hearings in Sydney and Melbourne. Serious concerns were raised by multiple groups including: the Australian Council of Social Service; National Employment Services Association; Drug Policy Modelling Program; UnitingCare; Catholic Social Services Australia and Catholic Health Australia; The Kirby Institute; Cohealth; National Drug Research Institute; Australian Drug Law Reform Initiative; Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations; Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League; Western Australian Network of Alcohol and other Drug Agencies; and the Public Health Association Agency. Key issues raised were: a) a lack of evidence to support the use of drug testing; b) the cost, availability and reliability of drug testing; c) the lack of availability of treatment services to meet potential increased demand; d) the potential to increase stigma, poverty and crime in the trial regions and e) lack of rigorous research methodology for the trial. Of note, critics stated that there is no evidence that drug testing will achieve the desired outcome. Submissions referred to drug testing of welfare recipients introduced in the USA and New Zealand where only small numbers of those tested returned positive test results. For example, one trial in New Zealand of 8001 participants had only 22 positive test results: 0.27% of participants. Others noted proposed drug testing would capture both recreational and drug dependent people, which would unnecessarily increase demand on drug treatment services and that existing drug treatment services were already significantly under-resourced (meeting only 50% of demand). In response, on Aug 30 the Government announced a $10 million fund would be available to provide additional assistance to drug treatment services in the three drug testing sites (Sep). The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights considered the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017 and raised concerns that Schedule 12 (welfare drug testing provisions) interfered with and limited the rights to privacy, bodily integrity, social security and equality and non-discrimination. For example, they stated “drug testing is an invasive procedure and may violate a person's legitimate expectation of privacy. Further, the measure requires the divulging of private medical information to a firm contracted to conduct the drug testing. A person may need to provide evidence of their prescriptions and/or medical history to the company to avoid false positives that, for example, detect prescribed opioids. Finally, the use of a card in purchasing essential goods after a person's benefit is quarantined will disclose that a person receives quarantined social security payments.” They further noted that the limits on the right to privacy did not appear justified: “The initial analysis identified that, first, the measure appears to be overly broad. The randomised drug test is not reliant on any reasonable suspicion that a person has a drug abuse problem and that if they test positive once, even if it was the first time they had used an illicit drug or it was a false positive, their payments are quarantined for two years, during which period they must use a cashless welfare card” and that less rights restrictive ways could be undertaken to achieve the central objective such as by encouraging (voluntary) treatment and investing in additional treatment and referral services(Oct). New NDARC research released “Drugs and the Internet”. This monitored trends over time in the availability and type of substances sold via the internet on the darknet looking specifically at the period January 2017 until June 2017. Fourteen marketplaces were actively monitored during the time period, but AlphaBay and Hansa were shut down by a joint international law enforcement operation in July 2017. Alphabay (up until closure) and Dream Market continued to be the largest marketplaces at the end of the monitoring period, recording the largest number of unique vendors during this time. Hansa (up until closure) was the third largest marketplace monitored during this period. Substantial downtime was recorded across the remaining marketplaces (including Dream Market) following the law enforcement seizures. By December 2019 11 of the 14 marketplaces monitored had closed, either as a result of suspected exit scams, security breaches, or law enforcement seizures – an unprecedented number of market closures in such a short time (Dec). The Senate, on the motion of the government, agreed to remove Schedule 12 from the Welfare Reform Bill (trial of mandatory drug testing) (Dec 7).

2016 The Office of Drug Control (ODC) established in the Commonwealth Department of Health to regulate and provide advice on the import, export and manufacture of controlled drugs as well as the domestic cultivation of medicinal cannabis. Key roles: to administer the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 and parts of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 and the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958 that relate to drugs (Feb 15). New research released: “Drug Use Monitoring in Australia: An expansion into the Pilbara.” This sought to supplement traditional DUMA analysis of police detainees in metropolitan areas with analysis in regional areas – here Pilbara. 51 police detainees in South Hedland were interviewed and compared with a sample of 209 Perth detainees. The findings indicated that illicit drug use was significantly lower among those interviewed in the regional setting, but that alcohol use was higher and many asserted alcohol contributed to their current detention (Feb). The Federal Parliament of Australia passed landmark legislation, Narcotic Drugs Amendment Act 2016, to allow the controlled cultivation of cannabis in Australia for medicinal and related scientific purposes via a national licensing scheme. The act come into effect on 30 Oct 2016, with a detailed regulatory framework enabling applications for licenses and permits for the cultivation, production and manufacture of medicinal cannabis products. Key rules included that first set of cultivation or manufacture licenses would be issued for one year only and that licensees must be judged as ‘fit and proper person’ including having previous business experience, no convictions for a serious offence in the last 5 years against Cth/State/Territory law and being a person of good repute (Feb 24). National Dob in a Dealer campaign launched, a campaign with Crime Stoppers that asks local communities to report drug dealers and drug-related activity and “stop the manufacture, supply and dealing of drugs in Australia”. This ran from Feb 2016 until March 2017 and was further extended in 2018. New research by Degenhardt et al released: “Estimating the number of regular and dependent methamphetamine users in Australia, 2002-2014”. This estimated that in 2012-13 there were a total of 268 000 regular methamphetamine users and 160 000 dependent users aged 15–54 years in Australia and that this number had increased substantially over the last 12 years (Mar). New research by Ritter and Stoove released: “Alcohol and other drug treatment policy in Australia” This concluded that Australia needs to double its investment in alcohol and drug resources to meet unmet treatment needs (Mar). TGA rescheduling of naloxone commenced enabling purchase of naloxone over-the-counter in pharmacies (S3) (Feb 1). New commentary by Lenton et al (Australia reschedules naloxone for opioid overdose) highlighted new challenges for full and effective implementation of naloxone over the counter (OTC) in Australia: including the cost of obtaining naloxone OTC. For example, they noted that under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, five minijets of naloxone cost A$37.70, or A$6.10 on concession, which could be a significant barrier to many consumers especially for opioid users who are often financially disadvantaged (Mar). Parliamentary Drug Summit held in Canberra, co-hosted by Senator Richard Di Natale (Greens), Sharman Stone MP (LNP) and Melissa Parke MP (ALP). Summit brought together International and Australian representatives with expertise in health, NGO, justice, personal addiction and academia to share experiences and recommendations around harm Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 4 minimisation and drug law reform. Led to call for Australia to put health and community safety first in illicit drug policy; to remove criminal sanctions for personal drug use; to expand investment in drug treatment and to pursue an open debate on more effective policies (Mar 2). Australian country statement at the United Nations 59th Commission on Narcotic Drugs noted that “Australia opposes the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, including in relation to drug-related crimes” and that Australia would “continue to press for a global ban on the death penalty and actively engage in promoting a public health approach to illicit drug use which considers a proportional response to minor or non-violent drug related crimes” (Mar). Australian country statement at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGASS) reiterated that “Australia will continue to press for a global ban on the death penalty in all circumstances, including in relation to drug-related crimes” (Apr). Stereosonic music festival organisers announced it was cancelling its 2016 trip to Australia following two fatal overdoses at their events in Sydney and Adelaide in late 2015 (Apr). DPMP research released by Chalmers et al: “The stigmatisation of 'ice' and underreporting of methamphetamine use in general population surveys.” Found stigmatisation of drug use (methamphetamine in particular) may lead to under-reporting of use in the national drug strategy household survey (Jun). A national pilot wastewater analysis program announced, funded through $3.6 million from Proceeds of Crime. The program will be run by the Australian Crime Commission and monitor levels of methylamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine (Jun). Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission was established following the merge of the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) and CrimTrac (Jul 1). Data from the Kirby Institute revealed record numbers of Australians treated for Hepatitis C since listing of new generation treatments on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes. For example, 22,470 Australians had commenced Hepatitis C treatment since PBS listing in May 2015, compared to 2,000-3,000 people treated annually prior to the listing (Jul). New research by Hughes et al released: “Trafficking in multiple commodities: Exposing Australia’s poly-drug and poly-criminal networks.” This provided the first analysis of the scale, trends and harms of Australian poly-drug traffickers (traffickers that trade in multiple illicit drugs), showing that compared to traffickers that trade in one drug (mono-drug traffickers), poly-drug traffickers import larger quantities of drugs, are more involved in other forms of organized crime and are more resilient to police (Aug). Illicit Drug Data Report 2014-15 released. This showed that the number of border detections increased for most drug types. Of note the number and weight of heroin, cocaine and MDMA detections at the Australian border increased. The report also included for the first time results from wastewater analysis. This indicated that methylamphetamine use in the community had increased linearly from 2009 to 2015, and that levels of use were much higher than suggested by estimates from the NDSHS (Aug). The Senate passed a motion led by Greens Leader Richard Di Natale calling on the Federal Government to address the rising rates of harm associated with drug use by implementing and appropriately resourcing evidence-based harm reduction policies, including:(i) greater access to needle and syringe programs across the country with an urgent roll-out of trials inside prisons, (iii) promoting awareness of the life-saving opioid reversal drug Naloxone, and highlighting its availability over the counter in pharmacies, and(iv) working with state and territory governments to cease the use of drug sniffer dogs at festivals and urgently introduce trials of pill testing for the upcoming festivals season. The motion passed the Senate without objection from Labor or Liberal Senators (Aug). 2016 Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) reported a resurgence in the Australian ecstasy market as well as a shift towards higher purity crystal forms of the drug. Regular stimulant users reported increased availability and purity of crystal and non-crystal forms of ecstasy in Australia. They also reported a shift in forms of use with increased use of crystal and capsules. Of note, prevalence of crystal ecstasy increased from 39% in 2013 to 57% in 2016 (Sep). New research released by Roche and McEntee: “Ice and the outback: Patterns and prevalence of methamphetamine use in rural Australia” This showed that those living in rural locations have significantly higher levels of recent use of methamphetamine in general and crystal methamphetamine in particular and that this is concerning given the pre-existing health and social vulnerabilities of those living in rural Australia. The article notes the need for prevention efforts targeting rural workplaces and primary care settings. The authors also noted drug networks may be spreading from major cities to smaller communities, and that this may reflect deliberate targeting of rural communities by illegal distribution networks (Dec). The Greens Party unveiled a new drugs policy that ended opposition to legalisation of illicit drugs. The new drugs policy included three principles: 1) the current punitive approach to drug use has failed to stop illicit drugs use; 2) the legal framework for drugs and other substances used for non-medical purposes should be informed by evidence of the extent and nature of the harm likely to be caused; and 3) education is a vital tool in reducing both harm from and demand for drugs, including legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. The policy also calls for a new independent national regulatory authority to assess and reduce the harm of illicit drugs (Dec). 2015 New research by Degenhardt et al. “Experience of adjunctive cannabis use for chronic non-cancer pain” found 13% of their sample of 1500 chronic pain patients were using cannabis in addition to prescribed opioids and that many of those reported they got more pain relief from cannabis than conventional medicines (Jan). Indonesian President Joko Widodo denied the final appeal for Bali Nine offenders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, to avoid the death penalty (Jan). ANZ Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation met to consider ANZ Food Standards approval A1039 for the use of low THC hemp products in food. The application was rejected on the basis of ongoing law enforcement concern about the impact on drug driving enforcement and the use of the cannabis leaf design normalizing and trivializing the use of cannabis (Jan). Silkroad website founder Ross Ulbricht found guilty on seven counts including drug trafficking and money laundering (Feb). The Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance released the first interactive drug education game for teenagers: “Pure Rush.” The program aims to inform adolescents about the potential harms of cannabis, methamphetamine, hallucinogens and pills through a game format (Feb). Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee commenced an Inquiry into the Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis Bill 2014 with a call for public submissions (Feb). The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Psychoactive Substances and Other Measures) Bill 2014 was adopted. The bill amends the Criminal Code Act 1995 (the Code) to ban the importation of all substances that have a psychoactive effect that are not otherwise regulated or banned. It was intended to fill the regulatory gap before new psychoactive substances are controlled under other parts of the Criminal Code or the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations. The maximum penalty for an offence will be imprisonment for five years, 300 penalty units (currently equivalent to $51,000) or both. The measures will enter into force when it is proclaimed or six months after Royal Assent (Feb 23).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 5 Federal Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement initiated an inquiry into crystal methamphetamine (ice). Terms of reference included to examine 1) the role of Commonwealth law enforcement agencies in responding to the importation, manufacture, distribution and use of methamphetamine and its chemical precursors; 2) the adequacy of Commonwealth law enforcement resources; 3) the involvement of organised crime in methamphetamine related criminal activities; and 4) the nature, prevalence and culture of methamphetamine use in Australia (Mar). National Ice Taskforce launched by Prime Minister Tony Abbott. The taskforce was led by Ken Lay APM, former Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, and tasked with establishing a National Ice Action Strategy to tackle ice (crystal methamphetamine). The taskforce called for public submissions until 20 May 2015 (Apr). Bali Nine offenders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, were executed in Indonesia (Apr). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2013-14 released. Noted that the number of illicit drug seizures and arrests were the highest on record. Of particular concern the number and weight of ATS end-product (excluding MDMA) detections at the Australian border were the highest and second highest on record and the number of national ATS seizures and arrests were the highest on record. That said, trends in the number of ATS clan lab detections had decreased for the second year (May). Law Crime and Community Safety Council (LCCSC – the peak ministerial law enforcement body in Australia) agreed to work towards more nationally consistent controls over precursor chemicals and equipment and that they would arrange public consultation on a range of possible options (May). A range of new hepatitis C treatments were added to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS), including Viekira Pak® with a cure rate of more than 90%. Treatments became available May 1 2016 (Mar). New research by Ritter et al, released: “Health expenditure on alcohol and other drug treatment in Australia (2012/2013).” This found that alcohol and other drug treatment spending in Australia amounted to $1.2 billion in 2012/2013: just under one per cent of health care spending in Australia. States/territories accounted for 51% of all expenditure (Aug). The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced its decision to place “naloxone when used for the treatment of opioid overdose” on Schedule 3, commencing 1 Feb 2016, thereby allowing over-the-counter (OTC) purchase. This made Australia the second country, after Italy (in 1995), to have naloxone formally available OTC. Key reasons for the decision were: 1) that naloxone is a well-tolerated life-saving medicine with minimal side effects; 2) international experience and the outcomes of a trial conducted in the Australian Capital Territory support the view that easier availability of naloxone is likely to decrease the proportion of opioid overdoses which result in death in Australia; and 3) that there are few inherent risks with use of naloxone (Nov 4). Final Report of the National Ice Taskforce, chaired by Ken Lay, released following face-to-face consultations across the country and over 1,300 written submissions. Report concluded that ice use was causing significant harms across Australia, but that in spite of the best efforts of Australian law enforcement that the ice market remained high and very resilient to law enforcement (due to the capacity to both import and domestically manufacture supplies). The taskforce thus concluded that ice is “not something we can simply arrest our way out of” and recommended that governments focus action on reducing the demand for ice and reducing the harm it causes: via expanded prevention and treatment responses. Made 38 recommendations including; to increase investment in alcohol and other drug specialist treatment services; develop a comprehensive, evidence-based two-year prevention communication plan focusing on ice; review diversionary programmes to determine best practice approaches, and consider options for improving and expanding existing arrangements; prioritise building a national cooperative scheme on unexplained wealth; piloting a Swift and Certain Sanctions programme for ice offenders on probation, drawing on lessons learned from US HOPE models; introduce a simplified governance model to support greater cohesion and coordination of law enforcement, health, education and other responses to drug misuse in Australia; to establish a national wastewater analysis capability; and to establish an illicit drug monitoring clearinghouse for national data (Dec). Commonwealth government issued a response to the National Ice Taskforce. Included $300m in new funds across five areas: support for families and communities; targeted prevention; investment in treatment and workforce; focused law enforcement; and better evidence and research. Specific responses included: $241.5 million for the delivery of further treatment services; $24.9 million to help families and communities, including via up to 220 new Community Drug Action Teams; and $18.8 million to enhance our evidence base, deliver new guidelines and improve the quality of data and research on ice and other illicit drugs (Dec 5). National Ice Action Strategy released: with objective to prevent people from using ice in the first place, help those who are using to stop, and to reduce the harms the drug is causing to users and the community. Strategy had five key areas: support for families and communities; targeted prevention; investment in treatment and workforce; focused law enforcement; and better evidence and research. Also noted that a new Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum would be developed in 2016 to oversee the National Ice Strategy and National Drug Strategy: consisting of health and justice Ministers with responsibility for alcohol and drug policy who would report directly to COAG (Dec 11). A one stop portal for evidence-based drug prevention resources and information – Positive Choices – was launched. The site was developed at the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre in collaboration with the National Drug Research Institute to provide a central access point for school communities: teachers, students and parents. It includes drug education resources, fact sheets, webinars and games (Dec). A change to funding arrangements for the national community response to Blood Borne Viruses (BBV) and Sexually Transmissible Infections (STI) led to threat of closure of AIVL, the Australian agency representing people who use drugs. But closure was averted following large community response including a #SaveAIVL Campaign and letters to MPs (Dec).

2014 Joint Task Force (Task Force Eligio), that was established to focus on high-threat money laundering, seized $550 million in drugs, $30 million worth of assets, $26 million in cash and arrested 105 people. The taskforce was led by the Australian Crime Commission and involved the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Transaction and Reporting Centre (AUSTRAC), in partnership with State and Territory police, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, Commonwealth regulatory and law enforcement partners and international agencies including the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (Jan). 2014 Government Services Report showed perceptions of illegal drugs as a problem in Australia decreased from 45% to 37% (2011-12 to 2012-13) (Feb). New DPMP research released: “Australian threshold quantities for drug trafficking.” Provided the first evaluation of threshold designs throughout Australian states. Showed a number of problems in threshold designs, including that users of drugs, particularly MDMA, consume or purchase for their personal use alone more than the current threshold quantity that triggers a charge of “deemed supply” and sanction of up to 15 years prison. Recommended increasing a number of quantities (Mar). New NDARC research showed growth in number of Australian retailers on the ‘dark web’ even after the closure of Silk Road 1.0 in Oct 2013 and a shift in nature of demand: reduction in Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 6 demand for new psychoactive substances (NPS) and increase in demand for traditional illicit substances (Mar). Minister for Justice Michael Keenan announced that the Government will amend regulations to add four NBOMe substances, also known as “synthetic LSD”, to the Criminal Code. This will increase the penalties for importation of these products from a fine to between two years prison and life imprisonment (Mar). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2012-13 released. The report highlighted a number of records in 2012-13 including that the number of national illicit drug arrests and seizures had increased to the highest on record and the weight of seizures to the second highest on recent. Of particular note were further increases in the number and weight of ATS (excluding MDMA) (Apr). The Australian Crime Commission warned that crystal methamphetamine was emerging in Australia as a ‘pandemic’ (Apr). New guidelines issued: National Guidelines for Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (Apr). New DPMP research released by Alison Ritter et al, “Review working paper 7: Australian alcohol and other drug treatment spending.” This provided the first estimate of total spending on alcohol and other drug treatment in Australia: approximately $1.3 billion per annum. It also showed that the largest contributor to spending were the states/territories (49%), compared to 31% from the Commonwealth (Apr). ANCD statement issued: “Funding principles for non-government organisations providing alcohol and other drug treatment.” Key principles included 1) recognise the important role of AOD NGOs and the benefits they bring to the wider AOD sector; 2) Recognise that NGOs provide more resources to service provision than governments fund; 3) The basis for government decisions surrounding funding models for the AOD sector and funding decisions must be transparent; and 4) Levels of funding provided to AOD NGOs must be adequate to enable provision of quality services that meet demand, and all the costs associated with its delivery (Apr). The Prime Minister Tony Abbott stated on Radio 3AW that the war on drugs is “not a war we will ever finally win” (Apr). ANCD position paper “Mandatory Treatment” opposed mandatory drug treatment except under exceptional circumstances (Apr). Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and other leaders of customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific, including Hong Kong and China, endorsed a new Asia-Pacific Anti- Drug Strategy, to provide for additional information and personnel exchanges, and a framework for regional and trans-national joint anti-drugs operations across the region (May). NIDAC released report “Alcohol and other drug treatment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.” This provided information on interventions that were evidence-based and directly related to addressing AOD use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Jun). New framework for a national response to New Psychoactive Substances in Australia released. The framework was developed by the Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs (IGCD) with input from health, law enforcement and non-government experts. Key inclusions in the framework included: 1) the need for consistency in terminology, and henceforth the use of the term “new psychoactive substances” in all official correspondence and messaging; 2) the need to establish a solid evidence base, such as through improved monitoring of NPS trends, comprehensive harms assessments (health and social) of NPS and sharing of information across states/territories; and 3) consideration of optimal legal responses (Jul). New strategies adopted: Seventh National HIV Strategy; Fourth National Hepatitis C Strategy; and Second National Hepatitis B Strategy (Jul). The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) rejected the application to add sofosbuvir (Sovaldi) an antiviral medication for Hepatitis C with a treatment time of just 12 weeks to the Pharmaceutical Benfits Scheme (PBS), arguing it was too expensive (Aug). Commonwealth Government states that it would not oppose state or territory moves to decriminalise cannabis for medicinal purposes (Aug). ANCD release new report: “Medicinal use of cannabis: background and information paper” (Aug). ANCD report released: “Young people's opinions on alcohol and other drugs issues.” The report, which resulted from Australia’s largest survey of youth opinions on AOD policy (n=2335), concluded that Australian youth showed strong support for harm reduction measures, including needle and syringe programs, regulated injecting facilities, and the availability of pill testing, and for drug law reform but were opposed to tighter alcohol regulations. They also expressed a desire for more reliable or relevant drug information and education (Aug). ANCD report on “Medication treatment options for amphetamine-type stimulant users” released. Used a systematic review covering withdrawal and pharmacotherapy options to identify whether there were any treatment options with promise. Concluded that the evidence was not yet strong enough to recommend routine use of any option. For example outcomes conflicted and most studies were poor quality e.g. small sample sizes, variable participant retention and often lacking testing for specific ATS patterns in Australia. That said, it noted a number of treatments that showed promise e.g. Dexamphetamine, Bupropion and Modafinil and recommended further research in local conditions (Aug). ANCD report released: “From policy to implementation: child and family sensitive practice in the alcohol and other drugs sector.” The report, undertaken by NCETA, concluded that there was increasing attention being directed to the risks children are exposed to, but also that responsibility for the children of those attending AOD services currently remains ambiguous and that that this impedes constructive and consistent responses across and within sectors (Aug). Prime Minister Tony Abbot backs legalisation of medical cannabis and states that “no further testing should be needed on the drug if it is legal in similar jurisdictions” (Sep). Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) launch position statement strongly supportive of medical cannabis (Sep). The Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS), a 11 year prospective cohort study of heroin dependent people, found that 11 years post the initial treatment episode the cohort had received a median of 1,465 treatment days and shown significant reductions in 1) daily heroin use from 80% at baseline to 4% at year 11; 2) involvement in crime from 55% at baseline to 22% at year 11; and 3) crime as the main source of income from 24% at baseline to 2% at year 11 (Sep). New Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Peaks Networks formed. The network comprised all state and territory AOD peaks and provided a conduit for immediate access to AOD services in all Australian jurisdictions (including treatment & harm reduction services) and means to support information exchange, collaboration, sector development, and quality improvement (Sep). New NDARC research released: “Young adult sequelae of adolescent cannabis use: an integrative analysis.” The study pooled data from four large Australasian longitudinal studies and showed that frequent cannabis use in adolescence was linked with reduced odds of high-school completion and degree attainment and substantially increased odds of later cannabis

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 7 dependence, use of other illicit drugs and suicide attempt (Sep). COAG meeting led to a national agreement to support a trial of medical cannabis in NSW (Oct). ABC Four Corners issue a new documentary on methamphetamine: “Ice Rush.” Eight years on from their 2006 documentary “The Ice Age” it reported on a new ice epidemic “ravaging regional Australia” (Oct). IGCD Stakeholder Forum held to discuss the development of the new National Drug Strategy. Key feedback was the need for more meaningful stakeholder engagement, a broader concept of enforcement beyond police, including liquor licensing authorities, local government, health authorities and food law and increased attention to the social determinants of health, including the role of education, employment and housing (Oct). 2014 Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) reported that amongst regular stimulant users there had been a stabilization in the use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) (37% in 2014, compared to 36% in 2013) and a drop in use of synthetic cannabis (7% in 2014 compared to 16% in 2013) (Oct). 2014 Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) reported that amongst people who inject drugs there had been a stabilization in the overall use of methamphetamine, but an increase in the use of crystal methamphetamine or ‘ice’ from 55% in 2013 to 61% in 2014 (Oct). New NDLERF report released: “Supply reduction policy and drug-related harm.” The report conducted by BoCSAR employed a) time-series analysis of the relationship between high-level seizures and supplier arrests of cocaine, heroin and amphetamine-type substances (ATS) on emergency department (ED) admissions and use/possession arrests between July 2001 and June 2011 and b) analysis of the impacts of three specific large scale police operations targeting cocaine supply. It found that increased seizures of cocaine, heroin and ATS did not result in any reduction in overdoses or arrests for use and possession of these drugs, but that the large scale operations were associated with a reduction in use and possession arrests (Nov). New AIC report released: “Counting the costs of crime in Australia: A 2011 estimate”. The report concluded that the three most costly crimes to the Australian community were fraud, drugs and assault, with drugs accounted for an estimated $3.161 million each year (Nov). The 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) was released. This showed recent use of any illicit drug (excluding pharmaceuticals) remained stable between 2010 and 2013 (at 12%). However, there was a significant decrease in recent use of ecstasy (from 3.0% to 2.5%) and while recent use of methamphetamine remained stable (at 2.1%), the recent use of ice (or crystal methamphetamine) more than doubled, from 22% in 2010 to 50% in 2013 (Nov). A joint operation by the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, NSW Crime Commission and the Australian Commission led to the seizure of 2 tonnes of MDMA and 800kgs of methamphetamine, worth an estimated $1.5 billion, that had been shipped from Germany to Sydney. Six men were also arrested (Nov). Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis Bill 2014 introduced by Senator’s Di Natale, Macdonald, Leyonhjelm and Urquhart. Proposed to establish an Australian Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis to be responsible for formulating rules and monitoring compliance with those rules for licensing the production, manufacture, supply, use, experimental use and import and export of medicinal cannabis; and provides for a national system to regulate the cultivation, production and use of medicinal cannabis products, and related activities such as research (Nov). The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) was restructured as the Australian National Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drug (ANACAD), led by Kay Hull MP, with the first priority being to look at the harmful effects of methamphetamine or ‘ice’. The new council reported directly to the Assistant Minister for Health, Senator Nash (Dec). The National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) abolished (Dec). House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health announced an inquiry into treatment, testing, prevention and cost of Hepatitis C Vaccination in Australia. The terms of reference included 1) prevalence rates of Hepatitis C in Australia; 2) early testing and treatment options; 3) costs associated with short and long-term treatment; 4) methods to improve prevention and to reduce the stigma associated with a positive (Dec). Migration Amendment (Character and General Visa Cancellation) Act 2014 adopted. Led to changes to Migration Act 1958 to expand powers to revoke visas and deport convicted/suspected offenders including: • inserting a new mandatory ground for the cancellation without notice of a visa under section 501 of the Act for anyone serving a full-time sentence of imprisonment in a custodial institution for an offence against the law of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory where the Minister is satisfied that the person does not pass the character test because the person has a substantial criminal record (meaning they have been sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 12 months or more); • strengthening the powers to refuse to grant, or to cancel, a visa on character grounds by inserting additional grounds on which a person will not pass the character test, including where the Minister reasonably suspects that the person has been or is a member of a group or organisation, or has had or has an association with a group, organisation or person that has been or is involved in criminal conduct, whether or not the person, or another person, has been convicted of an offence constituted by the conduct. Provisions commenced on 10 December 2014 (Dec).

2013 Research by McKetin et al. ‘Dose-related psychotic symptoms in chronic methamphetamine usersEvidence from a prospective longitudinal study’ provided the first comprehensive evidence that methamphetamine use is linked to psychosis, as shown by a large dose-dependent increase in the occurrence of psychotic symptoms during periods of methamphetamine use (Jan). New report released by the National Local Government Drug and Alcohol Advisory Committee: “The Australian Night Time Economy A First Analysis 2009 to 2011.” Showed night time economy was valued at $92 billion in 2011; 3.3% of the total Australian economy (Feb). An Australian, Paul Leslie Howard, became the first person in the world to be convicted and sentenced for a Silk Road-related crime of importation and trafficking illicit drugs (MDMA, amphetamine, marijuana and cocaine). He was sentenced to three years and six months imprisonment, with a minimum of 21 months (Feb). New report released: “Australian secondary school students’ use of tobacco, alcohol, and over-the counter and illicit substances in 2011.” Showed significant declines (from 2005 to 2011) in lifetime and recent use of most illicit substances e.g. amphetamines, cocaine and ecstasy. Lifetime use of cannabis increased in 2011 relative to 2008 (14.8% compared to 13.6%) but remained significantly lower than in 2005 (17.8%) (Feb). Australian Crime Commission released a new report: “Organised crime and drugs in sport.” Highlighted growing PEID use, but also concluded that (1) that illicit drug use by professional Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 8 athletes is more prevalent than is reflected in official sports drug testing program statistics; (2) some professional athletes are exploiting loopholes in illicit drug testing programs; and (3) that such drug use leaves players vulnerable to exploitation e.g. for match fixing and attracting organised crime (Feb). Renewed criticism of the AFL’s illicit drugs policy and its’ three strikes approach (Feb). Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek announced that two new treatments for chronic hepatitis C will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The two medications [boceprevir (Victrelis®) and telaprevir (Incivo®)] will benefit an estimated 130,000 patients (Feb). Government response to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement’s Inquiry into Commonwealth Unexplained Wealth Legislation tabled. 15 of 18 recommendations were agreed to in whole, including that the government look into expanding use of Australian Crime Commission coercive powers to provide evidence in support of unexplained wealth (Feb). Two new Australian Customs and Border Protection Service officers from Sydney International Airport were arrested for alleged offences involving importation of pseudoephedrine, bribery, abuse of public office and other serious offences. This linked to the 2012 investigations and arrests (Feb). New report released by ANCD’s National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC): “An economic analysis for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander offenders: Prison vs. Residential Treatment”. This report analysed the costs and benefits of addressing Indigenous offenders convicted of non-violent crime related to drug and alcohol use using residential rehabilitation treatment, as compared to prison. This showed that residential rehabilitation cost $18,385 per person, compared to $114,832 for prison. Moreover, once additional benefits of treatment were factored in, treatment could save $111 458 per offender (Feb). New anti-corruption measures came into force for Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. The measures included legal, mandatory requirement for all workers to report any suspected serious misconduct, corrupt conduct or criminal conduct (Feb). A joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the New South Wales Crime Commission, the New South Wales Police Force and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service unveiled a suspected drug syndicate spanning the Eastern Border (NSW, Vic and Qld). It is alleged the group were attempting to import heroin and methamphetamine from China (Feb). Australia’s largest recorded seizure of methamphetamine (585 kilograms) was detected by the Joint Organised Crime Group (JOCG) involving the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, NSW Police Force, the NSW Crime Commission (NSWCC) and the Australian Crime Commission (ACC). The seizure occurred in Sydney and led to the arrest of three alleged offenders (Feb). The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released two requests for tender: (1) review of the drug and alcohol prevention and treatment sector; and (2) the development of a quality framework for Australian Government funded drug and alcohol treatment services (Mar). The 56th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was held in Vienna. A resolution by Australia, New Zealand, UK and Japan, titled “Enhancing international cooperation in the identification and reporting of new psychoactive substances” was approved. This will foster a global early warning system about emerging psychoactive substances (Mar). New NDLERF report released: “Patron Offending and Intoxication in Night-Time Entertainment Districts (POINTED).” This was the largest study of AOD use in the night-time economy; interviewing almost 7000 patrons between November 2011 to June 2012 in entertainment precincts in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Wollongong and Geelong. Found that 16-22% admitted or tested positive to illicit drugs on the night out, with the main drugs being cannabis, methamphetamine and ecstasy (Mar). A joint law enforcement operation involving Australian Federal Police, Australian Crime Commission, Australian Customs and Victoria Police led to the seizure of 365 litres of liquid containing methamphetamine stored in bottles of carpet stain cleaner (Apr). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2011-12 released. The report highlighted that in 2011-12 the number and weight of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and cocaine border seizures had increased to the highest in the last decade. The number of national arrests for these drugs had also increased to the highest (ATS) and second highest (cocaine) in the last decade (May). The Criminal Code Amendment Regulation 2013 (No. 1) and the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Serious Drugs, Identity Crime and Other Measures) Act 2012 made the following amendments to Part 9.1 of the Criminal Code and the Criminal Code Regulations: • the lists of drugs, plants and precursors were transferred to the Criminal Code Regulations 2002 to provide for quicker listing of substances. The controlled drug list and border- controlled drug list were also updated to reflect current substances of concern in Australia, including new substances and analogues; • conditions and criteria for listing controlled and border-controlled substance in regulations were established; • the emergency determination mechanism was improved by extending the listing period to allow for appropriate analysis and testing of substances; & • the criteria that must be satisfied before an emergency determination can be made were refined (May). Calls for a national ban on synthetic drugs following NBOMe related death of Sydney teenager Henry Kwan and NSW temporary ban on 19 substances (Jun). The then Commonwealth Assistant Treasurer introduced an interim consumer protection ban under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) prohibiting the retail sale of 19 psychoactive products and substances nationally for a period of 120 days. This ban was introduced to fill a gap in coverage in some states and territories where Schedule 9 of the Poisons Standard had not been fully implemented. It followed the introduction of an interim ban that was put in place by the New South Wales Minister for Fair Trading. Interim ban was extended for another 30 days but then lapsed on 13 October 2013, when the Assistant Treasurer determined that a permanent ban was not required (Jun 19). Review of the Australian drug and alcohol prevention and treatment sector commenced, led by Prof Alison Ritter, Drug Policy Modelling Program. This 12 month project will clarify Australian drug and alcohol treatment and prevention funding; current and future service needs; the gap between met and unmet demand; & future planning and funding processes (Jul). First systematic analysis of Australian cannabis THC and CBD potency published by Dr Swift et al. Showed most Australian cannabis had high THC and low CBD potency. Moreover, the mean potency of Australian THC was 14.88, which is similar, if not slightly higher than in other parts of the world (e.g. US and UK) (Jul). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 9 The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a report: “Survey of secondary school principals on the use of alcohol and other drugs in schools”. The report stemmed from a survey which canvassed the opinions of over two hundred Australian secondary school principals regarding the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs in schools (Jul). The AOD Quality Framework Project commenced led by Prof Dan Lubman, Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre. This 12 month project seeks to better understand and improve service quality and inform future planning through development of a quality framework for Australian Government funded AOD treatment services (Jul). NDARC releases first findings from new internet drug monitoring program. Shows that Australian retailers on the deep web offered traditional illicit substances for prices similar to those of street dealers or friends: but that prices advertised by online international retailers were substantially cheaper (Aug). New report released from the Drug Policy Modelling Program: “Government drug policy expenditure in Australia - 2009/10”. Found that Australian governments spent approximately $1.7 billion in 2009/10 on illicit drugs and that 64% was directed at law enforcement, compared to 22% treatment, 10% prevention and 2% harm reduction. Also showed relative expenditure on harm reduction had decreased from 2002/03: from 3.9% of expenditure to 2.2% (Aug). A multi-agency law enforcement operation targeting criminal organisations using the South Pacific as a transit point and staging area for their activities seized approximately 750 kilograms of cocaine in Vanuatu bound for Australia. Agencies involved included the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) and United States Drug Enforcement Administration (Aug). New research from NDARC: “Global burden of disease attributable to illicit drug use and dependence: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010.” This showed that Australia had one of the highest burdens of disease attributable to illicit drug use. Other countries included USA, UK and Russia (Aug). ANCD released a series of reports on employment participation for people experiencing AOD problems including: “ANCD Employment Participation Survey: Full Report”; and “Working Together for Greater Social Inclusion: ANCD Employment Services Roundtable Report”. Showed that criminal convictions were still the biggest barrier to employing AOD users (Aug). ANCD Position Paper: “Pre-employment Criminal Record Checks” called for a rethink on use of pre-employment criminal record checks in Australia, after a 600% increase in decade (Aug). ANCD Position Paper: “Drug testing” overviewed the rationale for using drug testing in treatment settings, in workplaces, in schools, among welfare beneficiaries and in homes. They conclude that there is valid medical reasons for drug testing in drug treatment settings, but that there is little satisfactory evidence to support the use of drug testing in schools or workplaces and no evidence that drug testing welfare beneficiaries will have any positive effects for those individuals or for society (Aug). The ANCD’s National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) released a position statement: “Funding of alcohol and other drug interventions and services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people” in response to changes in government policy that were leading to an erosion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community control of AOD services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Community control was affirmed and supported by NIDAC (Aug). New BOCSAR report released: Trends in property and illicit drug crime around the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) in Kings Cross: 2012 update. This re-affirmed that trends in property crime and illicit drug crime incidents were the same in Kings Cross LAC and the rest of Sydney after the opening of the MSIC (Sep). Liberal Government elected, under PM Tony Abbott (Sep). ANCD released “Needle Syringe Programs position paper” which noted with concern the closure of a number of NSPs and reduction in funds. The report put forward 12 recommendations including that all Australian governments renew commitment to the use and expansion of NSPs and that there is an immediate introduction of a prison based NSP in all states (Oct). Australian Crime Commission and New Zealand Customs Service signed a Memorandum of Understanding allowing both countries to share information and intelligence on the highest criminal risks (Oct). The FBI shut down the original Silk Road site and arrested the alleged founder and main operator Ross Ulbricht (Oct 2). A multi-agency taskforce, Operation Diamondback, seized 1.9 tonnes of a pseudoephedrine and vanilla powder mixture: a novel concealment method used to traffick precursor chemicals from Canada to Australia. A total of 10 people were also arrested including 8 Canadian nationals during the 18-month investigation (Oct). Alcohol and other Drug Council of Australia (ADCA) defunded by Liberal Government (Nov). Third Inter-Government Committee on Drugs (IGCD) Stakeholder Forum held. Noted demand for illicit drugs, particularly of methamphetamine a key concern (Nov). New report released by ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drugs and Development Issues Committee: “The link between amphetamine-type stimulants use and the transmission of blood-borne viruses in the Southeast Asian region.” Identified key gaps in data on ATS rates of use, but also significant public health concern. Showed ATS users were exposed to multiple HIV risks due to 1) high risk behaviours such as polydrug use and injecting drug use, and 2) low health service utilisation. Recommendations included: enhance capacity to enable more precise prevalence estimates of ATS use; invest in rapid assessment and response strategies to ATS; and adapt existing harm reduction services, such as drop-in centres and needle and syringe programs, to better meet the needs of ATS users (Dec). Peter Phillip Nash was arrested in Brisbane over alleged involvement in moderating Silk Road (an online drug market) (Dec). Law, Crime and Community Safety Council (LCCSC) established as the new peak law enforcement body in Australia and New Zealand, bringing together Ministers from the Commonwealth, each state and territory and New Zealand with portfolio responsibility for law and justice, police and emergency management. This replaced the Standing Council on Law and Justice (SCLJ) and the Standing Council on Police and Emergency Management (SCPEM) and was given the mandate of fighting crime and promoting best practice in laws, criminal justice and community safety in Australia and New Zealand (Dec).

2012 World-first study launched by the National Cannabis Information and Prevention Centre to trial a new drug, Saltivex, to manage withdrawal symptoms from trying to stop smoking cannabis (Jan). The National Drugs Campaign partnered with the Big Day Out to encourage attendees to ‘face facts’ about ecstasy. Free branded water was provided and a National Drugs Campaign chill out van. The National Drugs Campaign subsequently partnered with urban music festival Supafest in April/May (Jan). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 10 47.5kg of ‘black tar’ heroin (and 2.2kg of brown heroin and 25.5kg of crystal methamphetamine) were detected in Sydney in connection with an alleged Iranian drug trafficker. NSW Police and the Australian Crime Commission asserted this was indicative of the recent rise in Iranian organised crime involvement (Feb). The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service noted an increase in attempted importations of ContacNT. ContacNT is a Chinese cold and flu medication sold over-the-counter that contains high amounts of pseudoephedrine, and Customs had identified drug trafficking syndicates were targeting International students to collect or take delivery of what they think are harmless packages (Feb). Request to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to exempt Kava from scheduling controls by allowing access when used in accordance with the traditional use patterns of the Pacific Island region was denied. Ruling meant kava remained a Schedule 4 drug (Feb). TGA ruling added methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), a synthetic stimulant to Schedule 9 (prohibited substances). Ruling came into force 1 May 2012 (Feb). TGA ruling added a new group entry to Schedule 9 (prohibited substances) for ‘synthetic cannabinomimetrics’. The intent was to ‘limit the promotion of “new legal mixes” of synthetic cannabinoids that were not already listed’ and to provide a safety net “without the need for ongoing urgent scheduling action” (Feb). New report from the Australian Institute of Criminology’s Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) released. The 2009-2010 report on drug use among police detainees indicated a significant decrease in the use of ecstasy (MDMA) amongst police detainees: 5% in 2010 and 2011, down from 11% in 2009 (Mar). A Tongan national male was fined $900,000 for the illegal importation of the largest seizure of kava in Australian history (almost four tonnes). The seizure had an estimated street value of over $2.5 million (Mar). The 55th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was held in Vienna, comprising of over 1200 participants from 120 countries, observers, international organisations and NGO’s. Australia’s resolution, titled ‘Promoting international cooperation in responding to the challenges posed by new psychoactive substances’ received significant support and was adopted by the CND, following minor amendments. This meant that novel psychoactive substances had been recognised as an issue of global significance and that there was a framework for increased global cooperation for this market (Mar 12-16). Fairfax investigation revealed high level corruption amongst Australian Customs and Border Control: Customs has suspended or sacked 15 of its officers since 2010 in connection with misconduct or corruption allegations for offences including ''possession of narcotics, lack of integrity, misuse of Commonwealth resources'' (Mar). The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement handed down the final report on its inquiry into new Commonwealth unexplained wealth legislation (adopted Feb 2010). Noted that despite the laws having been in operation for two years, no cases have been brought before the courts. It was argued that the current unexplained wealth provisions necessitated an overly burdensome investigation upon prosecutors. The Committee made 18 recommendations for improvement including enabling the Australian Crime Commission to use its coercive powers to provide evidence in support of unexplained wealth, allowing the Australian Taxation Office to use telecommunication information collected by law enforcement agencies and developing a nationally consistent unexplained wealth regime (Mar). The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a position statement, ‘Naltrexone Sustained Release Preparations (Injectables and Implants)’, in response to the ongoing debate regarding the use of naltrexone implants to treat opioid dependence. The statement noted that: “the ANCD supports the increased access to, and availability of scientifically accepted evidence based treatments” but that the “ongoing use of the TGA Special Access Scheme for sustained release naltrexone preparations circumvents formal processes to ascertain quality, safety and efficacy of pharmacological treatment products and is therefore inappropriate.” The ANCD called for the “TGA and the Department of Health & Ageing to resolve the ongoing use of the Special Access Scheme for the use of naltrexone implants” (Mar). 200kg of cocaine destined for Australia was seized in New Caledonia. The seizure followed an international operation involving Australian Customs and Border Protection Services, the Australian Federal Police, New Caledonian Police and the US Drug Enforcement Administration (Mar 31). ANEX issued a new discussion paper titled Australian Drug Policy: harm reduction and ‘new recovery’ (Apr). The Australian Greens called for dispensing fees for methadone and buprenorphine to be covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, noting that the dispensing fees limit access to many drug users who could benefit from pharmacotherapy treatment (Apr). The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Powers and Offences) Act 2012 amended the Criminal Code to ensure that substances and quantities that were temporarily prescribed in the Criminal Code Regulations 2002 (interim regulations) now remain subject to the Commonwealth serious drug offences. This included the four drugs Benzylpiperazine (BZP), Ketamine, Methcathinone, 4-Methylmethcathinone (4-MMC) and the precursor Phenylpropanolamine. In accordance with Part 9.1 of the Code the Interim Regulations [Criminal Code Amendment Regulations 2011 (No 1)] expired on 9 April 2012. The Act also amended the Customs Act to ensure powers available to Customs officers to seize illicit drugs at the border are consistent and efficient (Apr 4). Australia 21 report released: ‘The prohibition of illicit drugs is killing and criminalising our children and we are all letting it happen.’ Based on the high level roundtable discussions involving 24 former senior politicians, law enforcement officers and public health officials (including Former WA Premier Hon. Geoff Gallop and Former AFP Commissioner Mick Palmer) the report concluded that the international and Australian prohibition of the use of certain ‘illicit’ drugs had failed and that Australia needed to consider alternatives (Apr). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2010-11 released. The report highlighted a record number of illicit drug seizures and arrests across Australia, and a 19% increase (from 2009-10) in the total quantity of drugs seized. Large increases in amount seized were noted for two drugs: (1) cocaine – seizure weight increased by 67.7% in 2010–11 - the third highest in the last decade, and (2) heroin – seizure weight increased by 241% in 2010–11 - the highest recorded since 2001–02 (May). New research on Australian attitudes to drug law reform released from the Drug Policy Modelling Program: Analysis of the 2010 NDSHS showed over 72.7% and 51.9% Australians supported no or minimal penalties for possession of cannabis and ecstasy respectively (May). Fairfax media organised a public forum on drug law reform, devoted two weeks of media coverage and launched a ‘wikicurve’ that asked members of the public to have their say on ‘the drugs dilemma’ (May). Report from Operation Polaris, a multi-agency investigation into crime on Sydney waterfronts, revealed the existence of extensive corruption and criminality. The report revealed that Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 11 known organised criminals are targeting and exploiting workers on the waterfront and in the cargo supply chain and that this has resulted in subversion of employees and the importation of drugs and other illicit substances into Australia. It noted that Australia’s border security was exposed to 19 ”critical” risks, particularly in relation to the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) which was being used to track the movement of illicit substances to determine whether law enforcement authorities were interested in the cargo. The report also highlighted an entrenched culture to take no action when confronted with ”unusual, improper illegal activity” and concluded that this was reinforced by an “insular and nepotistic workforce” and an “anti-law enforcement” attitudes (May). The Federal Government unveiled responses to Taskforce Polaris. Responses included: (1) Introduce legislation to criminalise the provision of information from the Integrated Cargo System to aid a criminal organisation; (2) Limit access to specific cargo information to those in the private sector who have reported a direct and legitimate interest in the movement and clearance of specific consignments; and (3) Expand the list of offences for which an Maritime Security Identification Card or Aviation Security Identification Card can be refused. The Federal Government also announced that new taskforces would be established to investigate organised crime on the waterfront in Melbourne and Brisbane. Melbourne’s Task Force (Operation Trident) will begin on 1 July 2012 (May 25). The Federal Government announced that from 1 July 2012 it would return all money from its Confiscated Assets Account (an estimated $58.3 million over four years) to consolidated revenue. Since 2002 proceeds of crime has been a key source of funding crime prevention initiatives, drug treatment provision, illicit drug diversion programs and law enforcement projects such as DUMA & the development of an Enhanced National Intelligence Picture on Illicit Drugs (May). The ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drug Issues Committee prepared a summary paper of the influential 2nd Australian Needle and Syringe Program Return on Investment Study in English, Burmese, Khmer, Mandarin, Russian and Vietnamese. Translations into other languages are expected to follow. It is expected that this will assist in the expansion and further development of needle and syringe programs in the region (May). The Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) issued a new policy statement on ‘New recovery’, harm reduction and drug use. Arguments included: (1) that false distinctions between ‘active users’ and ‘people in recovery’ are unhelpful and may promote continued social exclusion and discrimination against current drug users; (2) that principles for recovery, such as self-empowerment, social inclusion, fulfilment and happiness, are easy to support in principle but are likely to be difficult and costly to attain in practice; and (3) that people on opioid pharmacotherapy maintenance potentially stand to lose the most from any shift towards a ‘new recovery’ approach – increasing risks of losing the employment, housing and stability accumulated while on long-term pharmacotherapy (Jun). Australian Institute of Criminology report released: ‘Measuring drug use patterns in Queensland through wastewater analysis’. Report outlined daily estimates of per capita consumption of methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine produced by chemical analysis of sewerage water from a Qld municipality in Nov 2009 and Nov 2010. This suggested that the per capita consumption of methamphetamine was greater than for MDMA and cocaine, particularly in 2010. The report concluded that wastewater analysis could supplement traditional surveys of drug use, such as the NDSHS, and provide estimates of drug use patterns that are not reliant upon self-report (Jun). The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a report from its 1st Recovery Roundtable that sought to explore the meaning of recovery in the AOD sector. Key findings included: “that the National Drug Strategy, which was developed after extensive consultation and input from the AOD sector, and which has been agreed to by all governments already, has as an objective to support people to recover from alcohol and drug dependence and assist their reconnection with the community; that recovery does not mean that abstinence must be the goal for all people with alcohol and other drug problems; and That recovery, regardless of definition, should not be the sole basis for a national drug strategy, particularly as it would tragically undermine the gains available from both harm and demand reduction” (Jun). 2011 National Opioid Pharmacotherapy Statistics Annual Data (NOPSAD) collection report released: Indicated that the proportion of clients aged 30 years and over increased from 72% in 2006 to 85% in 2011, with the median age of clients in 2011 being 38 years. Buprenorphine-naloxone was used more by younger clients, but methadone was more used among clients aged over 40 years (Jun). The Second National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Conference was held: “Beyond 2012: Leading The Way To Action.” The conference run by the National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee, ANCD brought together over 400 experts and practitioners to discuss and share information specifically on addressing the harmful use of alcohol and other drugs amongst Indigenous Australians. 22 resolutions were made including the need for (1) all national health campaigns to include an Indigenous specific focus; (2) governments to support the development of Indigenous AOD worker skills; and (3) substantial increase in Indigenous diversion programs and investment in through-care programs in correctional and juvenile detention (Jun). Liberal MP Mal Washer, Greens senator Richard Di Natale and independent Rob Oakeshott called on the Federal Government to ask the Productivity Commission to investigate the current adequacy of Australian drug laws, including ''the economic cost of law enforcement around illicit drugs'' (Jun). Minister for Home Affairs Jason Claire announced that the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service had commenced trailing the use of body scanning technology to detect internal drug concealments. The trial commenced at one Australian airport: Melbourne (Jul). Australia’s first national e-mental health online portal launched: mindhealthconnect as a gateway to information, support and services on mental health (Jul). The Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Customs and Border Protection Service issue a warning to persons engaging in illegal activity through online marketplaces such as Silk Road. The warning followed the arrest of a Melbourne man who allegedly imported narcotics into Australia via Silk Road. The man was charged with 10 offences relating to the importation, trafficking and possession of narcotics and prohibited weapons (Jul). New research by Bruno et al. 'Emerging psychoactive substance (EPS) use among regular ecstasy users in Australia' estimated the extent of EPS use and found that 28% of the 2012 EDRS sample had used an EPS. They revealed significant differences in the profiles of those who used EPS, with psychedelic EPS users but not stimulant EPS users engaging in higher levels of poly-drug use and reporting more social, health and legal problems (Jul). Large poly-drug seizure undertaken by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Services and Australian Federal Police: 306 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ice) and 252 kg of heroin. The drugs were hidden in a shipment of terracotta pots and constituted the largest and third-largest seizure of ice and heroin in AFP history. Seven people were also arrested (31 Jul).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 12 The ANCD released a report: “Supply, demand and harm reduction strategies in Australian prisons: An update”. The report, prepared by NDARC, found that Australia’s prisons tend to focus on supply reduction strategies, and there is a need to expand strategies to reduce demand and harm. In addition the report highlighted the need for greater levels of transparency and accountability within the correctional system (Aug). Regulation 4H of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations), prohibiting the importation of ice pipes, republished as Regulation 4I (Aug). New report released: “Social Inclusion in Australia - How Australia is faring”. Showed that while Australia is doing well in terms of life expectancy, health, employment and education, Australia’s level of income inequality has increased. It has particularly increased relative to the OECD average with Australia now having the ninth highest level of income inequality in the OECD (out of 26). Moreover, approximately 640,000 Australians experience multiple and complex disadvantage (Aug). The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler announced that up to $549.8M would be made available through the Partners in Recovery (PIR) Flexible Funding rounds, to improve collaboration at a system level to people with multiple complex needs including mental health (Aug). An alcohol and substance management plan Toolkit and Training Package were completed for the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) to be used in the implementation of FaHCSIA’s Breaking the Cycle Initiative (Aug). New Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) report released: ‘Initiation into drug use.’ Assessed police detainees’ reasons for initiation or non-initiation into illicit drug use, and reasons for continuation. Found that initiation was in the main due to curiosity (70%) and continuation due to enjoyment (40%) and relaxation (43%). Only 4% cited fear of legal consequences as the reason for non-initiation (Aug). New report released: ‘The economic impact of hepatitis C in Australia’. The report by the Boston Consulting Group estimated that Hepatitis C cost the Australian governments (Commonwealth, state and territory) $252 million per year, with a projected 5-year cost of $1.5 billion. Without new treatments, the cost will be born primarily by the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) covering disability pensions for people unable to work (Aug). New Australia 21 report launched: ‘Alternatives to prohibition: illicit drugs, how we can stop killing and criminalising young Australians’. Report examined the experiences of four nations (Portugal, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Sweden) and concluded that more effective drug policies are possible. The report outlined a range of potential policy options for Australia and called for a national drug summit in 2013 involving parliamentarians from all sides of the political spectrum (Aug). The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) convened a roundtable discussion on Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) with participants from medicine, consumer groups, pharmacy, government, peak bodies, and expert advisors. The roundtable report noted there were 92,503 registered medical practitioners in Australia of which only 1,444 were MATOD prescribers. Concluded that there is increasing levels of unmet need, that unmet need nationally is creating significant pressure and that the current MATOD system has failed to keep pace with the needs of clients in terms of affordability and accessibility (Aug). The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) position paper released: “Expanding Naloxone Availability.” Called for expansion in the availability of naloxone as a prescription medication for potential overdose victims be instituted in all Australian states and territories and that naloxone be rescheduled to be made available as a pharmacist only medicine (S3) or as a pharmacy medicine (S2) (Sep). New set of recovery principles launched: 'Principles of Recovery Academy Australia.' This outlined that ‘recovery embraces and transcends both harm reduction and abstinence-based approaches’ and that ‘recovery does not necessarily require abstinence.’ It also notes that ‘, that ‘there are multiple paths to recovery including peer support, mutual aid groups and professional treatments’ and self-recovery, but that not all substance use is problematic or harmful (Sep). The ABC 7:30 Report did a feature on naltrexone implants, titled “Drug addiction treatment divides opinions” (Oct). The Australian Drug Foundation launched a “get the effects by txt!” drug SMS information service, to which people can text a drug name and receive a health and safety message (Nov). Crimes Legislation Amendment (serious drugs, identity crime and other measures) Bill 2012 adopted. Amended the Criminal Code Act 1998 to transfer the lists of illicit substances from the Criminal Code to the regulations and allow for future listing of drugs, plants and precursors as prohibited substances to be done by regulation. It also repealed existing mechanisms for listing additional prohibited substances: providing a single emergency determination mechanism and increasing the length of the determination from 56 days to 12-18 months. The stated goal was to ensure the Commonwealth drug laws were up to date and allowed for flexible, quick responses to new and emerging drug threats (Nov). Centre for Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use established, headed by Professor Maree Teesson (Nov). An alleged drug manufacturer has been charged with manslaughter after his friend was killed after a clan lab explosion. It has been argued he should have foreseen the possibility of an explosion. This will be the first such case in Australia (Nov). Naloxone was listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) (Nov). The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Organised Crime and Other Measures) Bill introduced to strengthen the Commonwealth’s unexplained wealth regime (Dec). Federal Council of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) agreed that all Australian governments should implement and evaluate naloxone distribution pilot programs to reduce the incidence of fatal opioid overdoses (Dec). Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) launched a new section on its website which aims to raise awareness of Blood Borne Viruses (BBVs), such as hepatitis C, hepatitis B and HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Safe Sex practices among young people. A two year joint investigation by Customs and Border Protection, Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity and the Australian Federal Police unveiled a suspected drug ring operating out of Sydney Airport. As of Dec 2012 eight people had been arrested, including two Australian Customs and Border Protection Service officers, an officer of the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, and two suspected drug couriers, with further arrests likely. It is alleged that at least 10kg of pseudoephedrine was imported into Australia, in June 2009 and May 2010 (Dec). Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare announced a new Customs Reform Board would be established. Key members include Justice Wood (who oversaw the royal commission into Police

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 13 Corruption in NSW), Ken Moroney (former NSW Police Commissioner) and David Mortimer (former CEO of TNT Limited, former deputy chairman of Ansett and former chairman of Australia Post and Leighton Holdings) (Dec). New research by Barrett et al. 'Internet content regulation, public drug websites and the growth in hidden Internet service’ found that sites such as Silk Road are seen by drug consumers as a way of reducing the harm of illicit drugs, particularly compared to street-based drug marketplaces (Dec).

2011 New report released: “Australian secondary school students’ use of tobacco, alcohol, and over-the-counter and illicit substances in 2008.” The report indicated declines in most illicit substances in 2008 relative to 2002 and/or 2005. The main exception was ecstasy (Jan). The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, announced that 8 targeted mental health programs worth $113.2 million will be rolled out beginning January 1st. The programs include targeted mental health training to help community workers better identify and respond to those at risk of suicide, online mental health and counseling services, and current successful programs will be boosted to provide additional services (Jan). A major reform of the ministerial council system by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) led to the closure of the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (MCDS). The MCDS met for the last time on 25 February 2011 and agreed that the IGCD would take the lead role in coordinating Commonwealth, State and Territory efforts to implement the National Drug Strategy, and that relevant Ministers would meet on occasions when Ministerial-level policy decisions and direction were required (Feb). Minister for Justice, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, sought public comment on whether the model schedules and the quantities of drugs, plants and precursors recommended by the Working Party in 2007, and endorsed by the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy should be implemented in the Criminal Code, and if so how this ought be achieved (Mar). WA Liberals Mal Washer and Judi Moylan and Victorian Liberal Russell Broadbent called for a rethink on the way the Federal and State governments dealt with drugs, saying the "zero tolerance" approach was wasting billions of dollars and causing more crime (Mar). National Drug Strategy 2010-2015 adopted. Strategy maintained the balanced approach between demand reduction, supply reduction and harm reduction, increased acknowledgement of the roles of sectors beyond health and law enforcement, and included for the first time performance measures for assessing progress (Mar). 2010 Australian Crime Commission’s Organised Crime in Australia, the unclassified version of the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA) released. Identified that organised crime cost the Australian community between $10–15 billion every year and that illicit drug markets are the principle source of profit for organised crime in Australia (Apr). Multi-agency Criminal Asset Confiscation Taskforce, led by the Australian Federal Police, launched to identify and pursue proceeds of crime where there is a link to a Commonwealth offence. Taskforce uses resources of the Australian Crime Commission (ACC), the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions to confiscate assets, recover debt etc. All confiscated money and derived funds will be returned to the Commonwealth and placed into a Confiscated Assets Account; with the approval of the Minister for Home Affairs and Justice used to fund drug treatment, drug diversion programs etc (Mar). Australian National Council on Drugs report ‘Injecting drug use and associated harms among Aboriginal Australians’ conducted by Anex and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) Inc identified a gap in knowledge on Aboriginal people who inject drugs, fuelled by a lack of accurate and representative data on patterns and prevalence of Aboriginal injecting drug use. They also identified structural impediments to appropriate service provision (Apr). The Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department listed five additional substances to be subject to the serious drug offences contained in Part 9.1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995 (the Code), via interim regulations [Criminal Code Amendment Regulations 2011 (No 1)]: Benzylpiperazine (BZP); 4 – Methylmethcathinone (4-MMC, mephedrone, ‘Meow- Meow’); Methcathinone; Ketamine; and Phenylpropanolamine. This is the first time the interim regulations have been utilised (Apr). IGCD noted the emergence of new and existing synthetic analogue drugs (analogues) that mimic the effects of illegal drugs, particularly substances in herbal blends which mimic the effects of cannabis. Noted the reported wide use of these substances, particularly in the mining industry and raised concerns over health and safety, particularly for employees operating machinery and the risk to public health and safety (May). New Drug Use in Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) report released that assessed police detainee knowledge of newly emerging or less common drug types. Interviews with 824 police detainees revealed that in 2010 only 27% knew of Mephedrone, compared to 41%, 53% and 59% for Ketamine, GHB and Rohypnol respectively (May). Australian Federal Police made the largest recorded seizure of methamphetamines: 239 kilograms. Most of the methamphetamine was found in a van at an apartment block at Clovelly in Sydney's east, the alleged site from which the national network was run. Four men were also arrested from Sydney and Perth (May). The 2011-12 Budget outlined new flexible funding arrangements for all Department of Health and Ageing (DOHA) funded programs. This was in response to the Federal Government’s strategic review of DOHA funding which highlighted high levels of inefficiencies and red tape e.g. that DOHA administered funds to 159 small programs involving 2,200 direct funding recipients (often with multiple funding agreements and different reporting requirements). Accordingly, from 1 July 2011 a total of 159 predominantly grant programs will be consolidated into 18 new or expanded flexible Funds. Two funds relate to substance misuse: • the Substance Misuse Prevention and Service Improvement Grants Fund (SMPSIGF) – for national activities under the National Drug Strategy, including the national research centres, peak national bodies such as ADCA, IGCD support and health promotion; • the Substance Misuse Service Delivery Grants fund – for services that treat substance misuse. The budget statement noted this would save the department an estimated $53.5 million over four years and enable reinvestment in new health policy areas (May). Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement report released: “Inquiry into the adequacy of aviation and maritime security measures to combat serious and organised crime.” Concluded that there was significant evidence of infiltration of the aviation and maritime sectors by serious and organised criminal networks (SOCN) and that this was a natural consequence of the strong incentives that exist for profit-seeking, particularly from drug trafficking. Committee recommended that joint maritime taskforces be established in every state and the Northern Territory (Jun). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2009–10 released. Report noted that a record 694 clandestine laboratories were detected — an increase of 55 per cent from 2008– 09 and 245 per cent since 2000–2001. Arrests were highest on record and the number of seizures detected in 2009-10 was second highest since 2000-01, but weight of seizures was

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 14 41% lower than in 2008-09 (and third lowest recorded in the decade) (Jun). Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report released: ‘National Opioid Pharmacotherapy Statistics Annual Data collection: 2010 report.’ Key finding was that there had been a shift towards older clients receiving treatment, with the proportion of clients aged 30 years and over rising between 2006 and 2010 from 72% to 82%' (Jun). First National Drugs Campaign iPhone app developed. App contained facts on drugs and consequences of use and referral numbers for youth and families (Jun). Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League report released: 'Why wouldn't I discriminate against all of them?' A report on stigma and discrimination towards the injecting drug user community. Key recommendations included: that the Australian Government identify, review and, as appropriate, repeal federal laws and policies that contribute to the continuing criminalisation and marginalisation of people who inject illicit drugs; that federal parliamentarians receive education about the health and human rights of people who inject drugs and how current approaches to drug control adversely affect the health and wellbeing of people who inject drugs on a daily basis; and that the Australian Communications and Media Authority be encouraged to take a firmer stand on the reporting of matters that reinforce negative attitudes and perpetuate stigma and discrimination associated with people who inject drugs (Jun). New head of the Australian Lawyers Alliance, Greg Barns, said Australia should consider decriminalisation, even for heroin and crystal methamphetamine (Jul 1). The Therapeutic Goods Authority scheduled eight synthetic cannabinoids: JWH-018, JWH-073, JWH-122, JWH-200, JWH-250, CP47,497, AM-694 & cannabicyclohexanol. The synthetic cannabinoids, commonly referred to as ‘Kronic’, ‘Spice’ and ‘Voodoo’ etc, were placed on schedule 9 (prohibited substances), thereby banning from 8 July their use for therapeutic purposes (6 Jul). The Australian Standard Classification of Drugs of Concern (ASCDC), second edition, was released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The ASCDC is the Australian statistical standard for classifying data relating to drugs which are considered to be of concern in Australian society. The first edition, produced in 2000, was reviewed in consultation with relevant Commonwealth and State government departments, academics and other experts. One key change was the removal of ‘cannabinoids’ from the broad group of ‘stimulants and hallucinogens’ to its own broad group: ‘Cannabinoids and Related Drugs Broad Group’. The new broad group encompasses both synthetic and plant based forms of cannabinoids. Six new narrow groups were also added including: GHB Type Drugs and Analogues; Cathinones; and Piperazines (Jul). 2010 National Drug Strategy Household Survey report released. Key findings were slight increases, relative to 2007, in the proportion of the population aged 14 and over who reported recent illicit drug use (from 13.4% to 14.7%). From 2007 to 2010 the major area of reported increase was cocaine (1.6% to 2.1%) and cannabis (9.1% to 10.3%, albeit remaining lower than during 1995-2004). Reported recent use of ecstasy decreased (from 3.5% to 3.0%) countering upward trend since 1995 (Jul). New AVIL discussion paper released: “Double jeopardy: Older injecting opioid users in Australia.” Paper estimated that there were as 30,000 regular opioid users in Australia aged 40 years and over, and up to 80,000 infrequent or non-dependent opioid users. Paper also noted that the older cohort were not commonly served well by services and that they appeared to receive and/or experience a greater degree of discrimination (Jul). National Patient Pathways project commenced funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. Research sought to (1) describe the current alcohol and other drug systems in each state and territory; (2) link data from AOD, ED, and hospitals to examine AOD client experiences with health services and systems; and (3) interview clients that are new to an AOD service, to explore their journey into, through, and following treatment (Jul). New research released: “Counting the cost: estimating the number of deaths among recently released prisoners in Australia.” The study, led by Dr Stuart Kinner of the Burnet Institute, revealed that among adults released from prison in Australia in 2007/08, almost 140 died from drug-related causes within a year of release and that the number of drug-related deaths in recently released prisoners is three times higher than the total number of deaths in prison. The study called for the establishment of a national system for routine monitoring of deaths in ex-prisoners and evidence-based interventions, such as easier access to naloxone, to reduce these deaths (Jul). The IGCD held its first Annual Stakeholder Forum under the National Drug Strategy 2010 – 2015. Stakeholders from the drug and alcohol sector included service providers, local government, law enforcement, peak bodies and research organisations. Key themes emerging included the importance of ongoing and appropriate stakeholder communication and engagement, strengthening the focus on consumer outcomes and social inclusion, and enhancing data collection to build a stronger evidence base (Aug). IGCD members participated in a one and a half day planning workshop. A mission statement for the IGCD was agreed to and three goals adopted:1. Develop, implement and monitor the National Drug Strategy; 2. Provide evidence-informed advice to relevant Ministers; 3. Identify and respond to emerging issues. Planning for seven national sub-strategies was undertaken relating to: Tobacco; Alcohol; Pharmaceutical Drug Misuse; Illicit Drugs; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Drug Strategy; Research and Data; and Workforce Development (Aug). New National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund report released: ‘Opioid Substitution treatment in prison and post-release: effects on criminal recidivism and mortality.’ The study of heroin-dependent prisoners in NSW found 84% were back behind bars within two years of release, compared to the average return rate for all prisoners of 45%. However, the numbers dropped by one fifth if they left jail on opioid substitutes such as methadone and continued treatment in the community (Aug). Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Australian Federal Police detected 271kg cocaine in a shipment of lawnmowers from Brazil (the fifth-largest cocaine seizure in Australian history) (Sep). High Court ruling: MOMCILOVIC v THE QUEEN & ORS [2011] HCA 34. High court, by majority, upheld the right of the Victorian Court of Appeal to rule that s 5 of the Victorian Drugs Act, which stated that an occupier of premises in which drugs were found was deemed to be in possession of those drugs unless he/she ‘satisfies the court to the contrary’, was inconsistent with the Victorian Human Rights Charter. The ruling pertained to the case of an alleged trafficker, Ms Vera Momcilovic, section 5 of the Drugs Act and the Victorian Court of Appeal ruling that by reversing the onus of proof (placing a legal burden on the defendant to prove the absence of possession), section 5 could not be interpreted consistently with the presumption of innocence under s 25(1)” of the Charter. The High Court noted “declarations of Inconsistent Interpretation under the Charter play an important role in calling the attention of parliament and the people to laws that may be inconsistent with human rights”. It further noted that while such declarations do not affect the validity of legislation, they act as a trigger for parliament to consider whether a particular law should be amended to better protect human rights. The High Court also concluded that the jury had been mis-directed about the interpretation of s 5 and quashed the conviction of Momcilovic and ordered a re-trial (Sep). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 15 Largest seizure of pure safrole in Australian history: approximately 288 litres, enough to make approximately 2.3 million ecstasy tablets. The safrole was detected by Australian Federal Police and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service concealed in liquid hair and cleaning products imported from China. Three Sydney men were also arrested (Sep). Seizure of synthetic drugs, including MDPV and BZP, destined from Vietnam to South Australia. Operation led to the arrest of 5 South Australian men and seizure of 880 grams of methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), 10 kilograms of phenylpiperazine and benzylpiperazine (BZP) and 1kg of 5-iodo-aminoindane. Involved AFP, SA Police, the Australian Crime Commission (ACC), Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and Vietnamese Police (Sep). Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) launched an Online Vein Care Guide. It seeks to reduce the risk of Blood Borne Viruses (BBV) particularly Hepatitis C that comes from poor vein care: abscesses, scaring etc. It outlines the risks, addresses popular myths, and contains animations on safer injecting practices (Oct). Operation Avalon, directed at an international trafficking unit suspected of money laundering and planning a substantial importation of cocaine into Australia, led to arrest of four Spanish nationals, 300 kg in cocaine concealed in a yacht in Bundaberg, Queensland and seizure of $3 million in cash. The operation involved Australian Federal Police, the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and Queensland Police Service and Vanuatu enforcement authorities (Nov). New report from the Australian Institute of Criminology’s Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) program showed a significant increase in the use of methamphetamine among police detainees: 21% of police detainees in 2011 tested positive to methamphetamine—up from 16% in 2010 and 13% in 2009 (Nov). Guidelines for DOHA funding in 2012-13 released and applications opened for the first set of Federal Government’s flexible funds (Nov 14). Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Australian Federal Police seized 216 kilograms of illicit drugs and precursors that were hidden in cartons on raisins from Iran: 97.7kg of heroin and 118.4kg of pseudoephedrine (Nov 29). Regulation 4H of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations) came into effect. This prohibited the importation of ice pipes unless permission from the Minister for Home Affairs or his authorised officer has been granted. Under new Regulation 4H, an ice pipe is defined as ‘a device capable of being used for administering methylamphetamine, or any other drug mentioned in Schedule 4’ and ‘that is used to draw or inhale smoke or fumes resulting from heating the drug in the device, in a crystal, powder, oil or base form’ (Dec 10).

2010 Updated “Guidelines on the management of co-occurring alcohol and other drug and mental health conditions in alcohol and other drug treatment settings” produced for the Commonwealth Government. The guidelines were accompanied by a training package to facilitate their implementation into the workplace (Jan). Two Serious and Organised Crimes Acts adopted: Crimes Legislation Amendment (Serious and Organised Crime) Acts (No. 1 and No. 2). Acts strengthened criminal asset confiscation and anti-money laundering regimes, and required individuals suspected of unexplained wealth to demonstrate that it was legally acquired. Acts also strengthened law enforcement powers to investigate organised crime by providing protection for undercover law enforcement officers who infiltrate criminal organizations, implementing model laws for controlled operations, assumed identities and witness identity protection, enhancing search and seizure powers including access to electronic data, and facilitating greater access to telecommunications interception for criminal organisation offences (Feb). Australian Federal Police’s Australian Illicit Drug Data Centre (AIDDC) opened enabling drug profiling/chemical signature identification for off-shore and on-shore illicit drug seizures. The centre specifically aimed to collate and disseminate information to all state and territory law enforcement agencies and increase knowledge about drug distribution routes within Australia. The centre also aimed to work with health and education professionals in reducing demand for and harm from illicit drugs (Feb). Joint operation between Australian Federal Police and Cambodian National Authority on Combating Drugs (NACD) resulted in the detection and burning of 15 tonnes of Safrole oil in Cambodia. The AFP estimated that once converted to ecstasy this would have had a street value of $6 million (Feb). Stage one completed of AIVL National Anti-Discrimination Project. The project sought to identify key issues that would need to be addressed in a National Anti-Discrimination Campaign against injecting drug users (IDU), with stage one examining the level and drivers of stigma in the general population. Interviews revealed strongly entrenched views of IDU as selfish, dishonest, violent, unpredictable and not capable of either getting or holding down a job. Discrimination was indeed deemed necessary by many to reinforce that IDU was unacceptable. A number of suggested reasons were put forward for the stigma including that the general public has very limited direct exposure to IDUs and high exposure to “inaccurate” media and government policy on IDU (Feb). Regulation 4G of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 came into effect, prohibiting the importation of tablet presses without the approval from the Minister for Home Affairs or an authorised person (1 Mar). Public submissions for “Australia’s National Drug Strategy beyond 2009” concluded with a total of 96 submissions from groups including Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Civil Liberties Australia, Mission Australia, Cancer Council, Women’s Health Victoria, Life Education Australia, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Inspire and drug and alcohol research centres (Mar). 6th National HIV Strategy 2010-2013, 3rd National Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Strategy and 3rd National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmissible Infections Strategy released. All identified people who inject drugs and people in custodial settings were priority groups in the next period. They recommended that needle and syringe programs be trialed in Australian prisons (28 Mar). National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund report released: “An environmental scan on alcohol and other drug issues facing drug law enforcement in Australia.” Key challenges include the continued switch from naturally produced drugs to synthetic products, the amateurisation of illicit drug manufacture and production, the rapid uptake of new technology e.g. emails and file encryption and jurisdictional differences in precursor chemical controls. The main illicit drug identified for future concern was ecstasy due to supply factors – not being dependent upon access to one chemical – and demand factors - no evidence that demand had peaked & limited negative feedback loops. Pharmaceutical misuse was also singled out as of concern (Mar). Report released: “Situational Analysis of drug and alcohol issues and responses in the Pacific 2008-09” by the Australian National Council on Drugs followed on from an earlier report and provided a more in depth analysis, including both licit and illicit drug use. Report concluded that challenges for responding to substance use in the Pacific region had changed little in the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 16 last decade and that efforts to improve health and law enforcement outcomes were hampered by a lack of resources, commitment and local capacity (Mar). The National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre launched an Indigenous community project “Cannabis: It's not our culture.” The project utilised stories and artwork depicting how cannabis impacts on their communities and potential solutions to cannabis-related issues (Mar). Australian National Council on Drugs Report released into levels of Indigenous specific funding. The report “Indigenous specific alcohol and other drug interventions: Continuities, changes and areas of greatest need” found that between 1999–2000 and 2006–2007 operational expenditure on Indigenous specific alcohol and other drug projects increased from $42.6 to $89.4 million (110%), but there were large reductions in service provision and funding by Indigenous community-controlled organisations and a 50% turnover in projects and organisations. Key recommendations included more capacity building, increasing non-recurrent funding and that all levels of government re-commit to the principle of Indigenous community control of service provision (Apr). Minister for Indigenous Health and Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon announced funding of $13 million to establish a 45 bed residential rehabilitation service near Cooktown that will be accessible to people across the Cape York region. The site was chosen to complement the existing detoxification centre in Cooktown (Apr). A strategic review of the Department of Health and Ageing portfolio administrative arrangements commenced. The review was commissioned by the Federal Government, and sought to examine the alignment of resources within the portfolio to ensure it was best placed to implement and manage the government’s key health and ageing priorities and programs, including the National Health Reform agenda, as well as position the portfolio to respond to emerging health and ageing challenges over the medium and longer term (Jun). Task Force Polaris was established to investigate organised crime on the waterfront in Sydney. It comprised 49 criminal investigators & intelligence analysts from the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, Australian Crime Commission, NSW Police & NSW Crime Commission (Jun). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2008-09 released. Report noted that the total number (but not weight) of national drug seizures had increased 70% between 1999- 2000 and 2008-09 and that trends in relation to cocaine and Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS) remained a concern. In particular, the report noted the threat posed by ATS remains high due to the record number of related national seizures, arrests and clandestine laboratory detections in 2008–09 (Jun). Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor announced the Government would invest an additional $38.5 million to combat organised crime through the establishment of a Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre within the Australian Crime Commission and new analytical technologies to assist the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) (Jun). The Australian Needle and Syringe Program Survey 2009 indicated a significant decline in the prevalence of HCV antibody: from 61-62% during the period 2005-2008, to 50% in 2009. The decline in HCV antibody prevalence was observed in all states and territories with the exception of South Australia (Jun). The Inaugural National Indigenous Drug & Alcohol Conference was held in Adelaide. It was hosted and organized by NIDAC and attracted over 550 participants (Jun). The first national report on prisoner health in Australia released. Key findings include that 70% had used illicit drugs and over half had consumed alcohol at risky levels during the 12 months prior to entering prison. The report was carried out by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and used data from a number of sources including the AIHW census of public and private prisons (Jun). Launch of Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre. The centre seeks to share data and bring together analysts from Commonwealth agencies including the Australian Federal Police, Department of Immigration and Citizenship, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, the Australian Taxation Office, Centrelink, Customs and Border Protection and State and Territory law enforcement authorities so as to track and analyse money flows, identify high risk cash flows, patterns of crime and the individuals, businesses and corporate structures that may be involved in criminal enterprises including drug trafficking in Australia and overseas (Jul). Launch of the Australian Crime Commission’s Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre. The centre seeks to share data and bring together analysts from Commonwealth agencies including the Australian Crime Commission, Australian Federal Police, Department of Immigration and Citizenship, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, the Australian Taxation Office, Centrelink, Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Defence, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Attorney-General’s Department, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission and State and Territory law enforcement authorities so as to track and analyse money flows, identify high risk cash flows, patterns of crime and the individuals, businesses and corporate structures that may be involved in criminal enterprises including drug trafficking in Australia and overseas (Jul). The Australian Federal Police in collaboration with NSW Police and Customs seized 240 kilograms of cocaine, the fifth largest cocaine seizure in Australia. The cocaine, with an estimated street of $84 million was found in a shipment of pavers from Mexico (Jul). Former AFL player Ben Cousins’ documentary “Such is Life” aired on public television. The documentary, which attracted more than 2 million viewers, provided a controversial insight into his battle with illicit drug use (Aug). A joint Four Corners/The Age investigation – “Crime Incorporated” – screened on national television. The show interviewed high ranking police experts including Australian Crime Commission (ACC) CEO John Lawler, former operations manager for the ACC, Michael Purchas, former Victorian detective inspector, Jim O’Brien, and Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, Simon Overland about Australia’s fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. The show revealed how Operation Hoffman, a two year multi-agency investigation led by the ACC, exposed an international drug importation syndicate with links to the Comancheros outlaw bikie gang, Chinese triads, waterfront workers and corrupt Australian officials. Mr O’Brien asserted that Australia is only making a small dint into organised crime, due to the sophistication of international drug importation syndicates, a lack of resources and political will (Aug). The Australian Greens Party formally adopted Justice Reinvestment as part of its justice policy (Aug). Minority Labor Government formed with support of Greens HAdam BandtH and independents HAndrew WilkieH, HRob OakeshottH and HTony WindsorH. Julia Gillard sworn in as Prime Minister (Sep). Research by the Drug Policy Modelling Program found that Australian news media could influence youth attitudes to illicit drug use. The study that involved 2,296 young Australians aged 16-24 indicated that news media is more likely to deter young people from using illicit drugs than encourage its use, but news media messages were most likely to affect youth (users & non-users) if they reported on social and health consequences of use (Sep).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 17 The 2010 Ecstasy and related Drug Reporting System (EDRS), a sentinel survey of regular ecstasy and related drug users, reported a decline in use of ecstasy and an increase in use of cocaine and synthetic chemicals such as mephedrone. Reported prevalence of cocaine use was the highest since reporting had begun (23% in 2003 vs 48% in 2010) (Oct). Australian Customs and Australian Federal Police made the third-largest seizure of cocaine. A total of 464 kilograms of cocaine was detected on a yacht moored in a Brisbane marina, following a tip-off from the US Drug Enforcement Administration (Oct). Launch of two ANEX position papers: “With conviction: the case for controlled needle and syringe programs in Australian prisons” and “Lifesavers: a position paper on access to Naloxone Hydrochloride for potential opioid overdose witnesses” (Oct). Draft National Drug Strategy 2010-2015 released for public feedback (Nov). A joint Australian Federal Police and Australian Customs and Border Protection Service operation made the fifth largest heroin seizure. 168 kilograms, believed to be worth approximately $60 million, were found in a container of wooden doors shipped from Malaysia. Three people were arrested (Nov). The Australian Federal Police targeted drug importations via the postal system on a national day of action timed to precede Schoolies Week and the holiday season. In total, 38kg of drugs were captured (Nov). High Court decision: State of South Australia v Totani & Anor [2010] HCA 39. The High Court, by 6-1 majority, held s 14(1) of the Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act 2008 (SA) to be constitutionally invalid. By requiring courts to place control orders on members of ‘criminal enterprises’ without rights to review whether they had ever engaged in criminal conduct or were likely to do so, executive powers were deemed to impinge upon normal judicial procedures (Nov). A bill approving an Australian National Preventive Health Agency was passed in Parliament. The agency will lead Australia’s fight against preventable diseases through campaigns targeting obesity, along with alcohol, tobacco and other substance abuse (Nov). The HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmissible infections in Australia Annual Surveillance Report 2010 by National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research found that HIV prevalence amongst injecting drug users remained low, with 1.2% of those attending needle syringe programs (NSPs) in 2009 testing positive to HIV antibodies. Hepatitis C prevalence remained much higher, but amongst those attending NSPs prevalence decreased between 2008 and 2009 from 62% to 50% (Nov). Operation Unification, a joint initiative of Crime Stoppers, Police and the ANZPAA Crime Forum, urged the community to ‘dob in a drug lab.’ The community was told to report if they saw telltale signs including unusual chemical odours coming from a premises, chemical drums, frequent visitors and premises with blacked out windows (Nov). The Commonwealth Government, led by the Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department, released the first commonwealth Organised Crime Response Plan (OCRP 2010–11). The response plan sets out an approach by which Commonwealth agencies including ACC, AFP and AUSTRAC will respond to threats identified in the Australian Crime Commission’s classified Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA), including Amphetamine-Type Stimulants, one of three priority risks (Nov). Ethan Nadelman completed a national speaking tour, advocating for heroin prescribing, prison NSPs and more ready access to naloxone for use by bystanders in cases of opioid overdoses (Nov-Dec). Australia and Pakistan joined forces signing a Memorandum of Understanding: Combating Narcotics Drugs and Developing Narcotics Control Cooperation at the AFP Headquarters. A ‘Letter of Intent’ to establish a Pakistan Transnational Team on Drugs and Crime, was also signed (3 Dec). The Federal Government requested that the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing establish an Expert Advisory Group on Mental Health to provide advice to the Federal Government on mental health reforms (Dec). The Federal Government announced that their latest phase of the National Drugs Campaign will use “In the Mix” website to target festival-goers with an increasing focus on information and education (Dec). A new report, “Alcohol and other drug treatment services in Australia 2008–09: Report on the National Minimum Data Set” found that treatment episodes for alcohol continued to increase (making up over half of treatment episodes in 2008-09), but treatment for most illicit drugs declined or stabilised. The biggest decline was in relation to heroin, with 1,349 less treatment episodes in 2008-09, and a 8,420 decline between 2002-03 and 2008-09 (Dec). 14 new substances added to Schedule 4 of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956: Acetylcodeine; Acetylmorphine; Alkoxyamphetamine; Alkoxyphenylethylamine; Alkylthioamphetamine1; Amineptine; 5-(2-aminopropyl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene; Benzylpiperazine (BZP); 1-(8-Bromobenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b]difuran-4-yl)-2-aminopropane (Bromo- Dragonfly); Codeine-N-oxide; Dimethylamphetamine; Oripavine; 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC); and Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP). Their inclusion increased alignment with existing legislation (e.g. the Poisons Standard or the Criminal Code Act 1995) and addressed an increased market demand for alternative synthetic drugs and drugs marketed as party pills (14 Dec). Ketamine moved from Schedule 8 to Schedule 4 of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (14 Dec). The Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department, in close collaboration with state and territory jurisdictions, released a National Organised Crime Response Plan 2010–13. This complements the Commonwealth Organised Crime Response Plan and aims to strengthen multi-jurisdictional collaboration. Under the plan the Commonwealth, state and territory governments have agreed to improve consistency of legislation to fight organised crime; remove impediments to effective sharing of information and intelligence;and target the priority organised crime risks identified in the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (Dec). The 2010 Australasian Chemical Diversion Congress was held in Perth. Hosted by Western Australia Police, the Congress drew together precursor chemical diversion experts from national and international law enforcement agencies, forensic and health services, industry and the legal profession (Dec). First national framework for NSPs released: National Needle and Syringe Programs Strategic Framework 2010-2014. Framework was designed to strengthen the links between services and across states and territories. Seven priorities were identified including: national minimum standards; nationally accredited core training for staff; improved data collection and reporting; and increased availability of injecting equipment (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 18 The ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drug Issues Committee and the UNODC commenced a series of discussions on Compulsory Centres for Drug Users (CCDUs) in the Southeast Asian nations of Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Lao, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. A series of three invitation-only Roundtables and follow-up working groups were employed, using country officials, UNODC, WHO, UNAIDS, ESCAP and bilateral partners. The first of these Roundtables was held in December 2010, the second was held in October 2012. A third Roundtable is planned for 2014. The goal is to explore options for introducing effective policies and programs (such as drug and HIV prevention, treatment and harm reduction) (Dec).

2009 National Amphetamine Type Stimulant Training Program, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, commenced. The training is provided by ANEX in the aim of increasing the capacity of service providers to meet the needs of people who use ATS, providing earlier intervention and increasing referrals to support services (Mar). New Ministerial Advisory Committee formed on Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections (Mar). “Meth website” launched in the aim of helping methamphetamine users self-manage some of the most common meth-related issues. Run by Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre the site provides a self-assessment tool, and research-based, practical advice on self-management for methamphetamine users and options for specialist treatment (Mar). Report by the Australian Institute of Criminology released on “Women, drug use and crime: Findings from the Drug Use Monitoring in Australia program.” Report found female police detainees had higher rates of illicit drug use (except for cannabis and ecstasy), were more likely to have injected drugs and had higher rates of dependency. They were also more likely to attribute their crime to illicit drug use, with use tending to precede criminal activity (Apr). Release of report on 2007 Australian Survey of Social Attitudes (AuSSA) on crime and justice showed 10% Australians viewed drugs as the first or second most important issue facing Australia. Public fear on drug trafficking remained higher in rural/remote areas than in capital cities and public support for the removal of criminal penalties for cannabis use continued to decline (May). Updated guidelines on managing co-occurrence of mental health and substance use problems released: HMonograph series no. 71: Comorbidity of mental disorders and substance use: A brief guide for the primary care clinicianH (May). New report funded by the Australian National Council on Drugs “Non-government organisations in the alcohol and other drugs sector: issues and options for sustainability” identified NGOs were over-burdened with red tape and had to spend over 474 hours per year reporting to funding bodies. Additional problems included limited workforce capacity, insufficient funds and reduced independence of the NGO sector due in part to increased use of government tied grants (May). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2007-08 reported that the Australian heroin market was stable but that trends in relation to cocaine indicated “a possible expansion of the domestic cocaine market.” Primary indicators were that the number and weight of border cocaine seizures increased from 2006-07 to 2007-08 and the number of domestic cocaine seizures was the highest on record (Jun). The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, announced that in an effort to crack down on Australia's record ecstasy use the Australian Government would make tablet presses a prohibited import. The announcement occurred at the meeting of the Ministerial Council for Police and Emergency Management in Perth (Jun). Illicit Drugs in Sport – National Education and Action Plan adopted. The plan uses sports role models (for community education), targeted education programs (for elite athletes, coaches and sports administrators), and funding to help national sporting agencies conduct out of competition illicit drug testing (Jun). Therapeutic Goods Authority closed a loop hole in a ruling that naltrexone implants could only be used in clinical trials and in cases where it is proven the naltrexone implants meet appropriate quality. This decision blocked all future administration of Western Australia’s “naltrexone implant pioneer” Dr George O’Neil unless he obtained regulatory approval for his implants (Jul). The Parliamentary Joint Committee on the Australian Crime Commission (PJC-ACC) initiated an inquiry into the adequacy of aviation and maritime security measures to combat serious and organised crime, including the methods used by criminal groups to infiltrate Australia's airports and ports, and the extent of infiltration (Sep 14). Second Needle Syringe Program (NSP) return on investment study in Australia released. The research conducted by the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research estimated that NSP investment over the period 2000-09 resulted in an estimated 32,050 HIV infections and 96,667 HCV infections averted as well as substantial healthcare cost savings to government, and gains in disability-adjusted life years. It concluded that even over the short term, every $1 invested in NSPs returned $4 in healthcare cost-savings (Oct). Commonwealth government announced provision of $9 million (over 3 years) to enable extra support for parents who have drug or alcohol problems. The funding was intended to assist in the provision of in-home parenting help and aftercare support for parents who have left rehabilitation services (Oct). Fifth evaluation of the National Drug Strategy released by Siggins Miller. The evaluators noted that the NDS had continued to serve Australia well by driving partnerships and an emphasis upon pragmatic and evidence-informed policy. Yet they identified a number of areas of concern including: a lack of stakeholder support for the term harm minimisation, a lack of knowledge over what constitutes the optimal allocation of resources, either between licit and illicit drugs or between the strategy goals (supply reduction, demand reduction and harm reduction), gaps in the monitoring of drug trends and evaluation of program implementation and poor community engagement in policy development. These problems were deemed to have reduced the capacity of the national drug strategy to drive policy commitment, to allocate resources efficiently and ensure evidence-informed and publicly supported policy decisions. They put forward 15 recommendations including that the NDS goal “harm minimisation” be replaced by a new term “that encompasses both the causes of problematic drug use and responding to drug related harms,” that the “imbalance of investment” among drug types and intervention sectors be rectified and that broader stakeholder engagement be encouraged in all stages of the policy process (Nov). The Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy issued a document for public consultation: “Australia’s National Drug Strategy beyond 2009: Consultation” which provided 2 months for public feedback. The document asked for advice on a number of specific questions such as how to better engage other sectors in the advisory structures, how to complement the social inclusion agenda and how to build the capacity of the drug and alcohol sector? It also asked for advice on what constituted the top priorities for Australian drug policy for the ensuing 5 years and how emerging issues such as performance and image enhancing drugs may affect Australian drug trends (Nov). The Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy endorsed the National Drug and Alcohol Clinical Care and Prevention (DA-CCP) Modelling Project. This project sought: (1) to develop the first Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 19 national population-based planning model for drug and alcohol service planning; (2) to estimate the need and demand for drug and alcohol services across Australia; and (3) to calculate the resources needed (Nov). 2009 Mission Australia youth survey identified that drugs were the number one issue of concern for the survey of 46,000 11-24 year olds. 11-14 year olds were particularly concerned about illicit drugs, leading Mission Australia to conclude they were in need of less fear campaigns and more information on drug issues (Nov). Commonwealth Organised Crime Strategic Framework released by the Attorney-General, the Hon Robert McClelland MP, and the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O'Connor MP. The Framework sought to ensure Commonwealth agencies worked together to prevent, disrupt, investigate and prosecute organised crime. Key elements included: a classified Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA) that will be produced by the Australian Crime Commission and identify biannually the most significant threats and harms for Australia; and an Organised Crime Response Plan (OCRP) that will align Commonwealth efforts to respond (25 Nov). Health Minister announced $4 million in funding for illicit drugs. Key measures included $750,000 to support national web-based counseling, $360,000 for peak bodies including the Alcohol and Drugs Council of Australia and Australian Therapeutic Communities Association, $948,000 for data collection and $1.1 million for drug law enforcement research (Dec). A confidential Australian Federal Police report argued that Australia has become the world’s most profitable market for cocaine cartels due to unprecedented demand and prices. Between 2003 and 2006/7, cocaine accounted for about 5 per cent of drugs seized in Australia. By 2007/08 this had risen to 10 per cent. In 2008/09 it was 25 per cent. The report argued that the market was likely to remain highly lucrative in Australia due to a “generational shift” to cocaine (Dec). Amendments to the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 were passed. This prohibited the importation of tablet presses without the permission of the Minister for Home Affairs or an authorised person (Dec). Following on the advice received from the Australian Medical Council, the Minister for Health and Ageing, The Hon Nicola Roxon MP, announced that she had decided to recognise addiction medicine as a medical specialty for the purpose of inclusion in the AMC List of Australian Recognised Medical Specialties (Dec). “Drug use: in the Australian workforce,” a report by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, found that based on re-analysis of the 2004 National Drug Strategy Household Survey 10.4% of those in the paid workforce had used an illicit drug in the last month and 46.8% had ever used an illicit drug. Only 1% of the workforce reported drug-related absenteeism and 2.5% reported attending work while under the influence of drugs, but rates were higher amongst young male workers and for some professions, especially the retail and hospitality sector (Dec).

2008 Report on “Supporting the families of young people with problematic drug use: investigating support options” by the Australian National Council on Drugs addressed the support needs of families who have, as a family member, a young person who is misusing substances (Feb). Report on “Drug Testing in Schools – evidence, impacts and alternatives” by the Australian National Council on Drugs recommended against drug testing in schools. The report by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction raised concerns about the accuracy of available testing technology, the potential of testing regimes to undermine child-school and parent-child relations and the significant cost (an annual cost of at least $302 million for urine tests or $355 million for saliva tests) (Mar). Media reports that heroin shortage had ended, with increased availability, increased purity and decreased price of white heroin in the Sydney area. Also evident was a rise in heroin overdoses (Mar). Media reports that Afghan brown heroin was emerging in Sydney. Ingrid Van Beek, director of the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, reported use of brown heroin had increased over the last 9 months and that 30% of injectors at the centre were currently using brown heroin (Mar). On the eve of the Bucharest NATO-plus summit, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd strongly advocated for opium eradication programs in Afghanistan. Media reports highlighted arguments against such interventions (Apr). Collins and Lapsley released a new report on “The cost of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug abuse to Australian society in 2004-05.” This reported that the net social costs to Australian society had increased from $34 billion in 1998-99 to $55 billion in 2004-05. Of this, the costs associated with alcohol had increased from 22% to 27%, while costs associated with illicit drugs had decreased from 17% to 14% (Apr). Media attention resumed on Naltrexone implants in light of editorials and new research findings on the harms associated with their use e.g. severe withdrawal, vomiting, diarrhoea, episodes of delirium, infections and kidney impairment (Apr). Netherlands-based Synthetic Drug Unit reported that Australia had become a major destination for supplying Dutch MDMA, aided by the Italian Mafia. Led to the permanent appointment of a Dutch police officer in the Australian Federal Police (Apr). 2020 Summit held in Canberra. Summit brought together experts from around Australia to develop new ideas/policy directions for Australia by year 2020 (Apr). At an Extraordinary General meeting, ADCA adopted a new constitution that radically altered its governance arrangements, one aspect of which was that the State and Territory NGO peaks were given a direct role in the organisation (Apr). Evaluation of the third phase of the National Drugs Campaign released. The results showed that 78% of 13-24 year olds felt the campaign had influenced them to some extent e.g. thinking about the consequences of using drugs (32%) or avoiding the use of drugs (20%) and significant increases in the number of young people who discussed illegal drugs with their parents and significant reductions in perceptions that drugs were fun and increased perceptions that the use of drugs could lead to mental health problems (Apr). Research by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction into use of methamphetamines by Australians in paid employment found 4% of workforce and 11% of those aged 18-29 had used methamphetamines. Authors found use was contributing to growing levels of workplace absenteeism and/or lost productivity with 13% employed meth users reporting they had failed to attend work because of illicit drug use and 33% reporting going to work while under the influence (May). First National Corrections Drug Strategy 2006-2009 endorsed (May). MCDS endorsed the First National Amphetamine-Type Stimulants Strategy 2008-2011 (May).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 20 National rollout of Clandestine Laboratory Database a secure national repository for information derived from clandestine laboratory seizures. The database includes information on lab locations, persons engaged in the illicit manufacture, safety, types of laboratory reactions being used, methodology, exhibit details, on-site reports and photographs. The rollout was funded by the National Precursor Strategy (May). Report on “Responding to substance abuse and offending in Indigenous communities: review of diversion programs” found that eligibility criteria were a major barrier to Indigenous involvement in drug diversion programs. Two principle reasons were the exclusion of offenders with prior criminal histories and/or violent offences and requirement for illicit drug problems. Report recommended expanding eligibility criteria e.g. enabling diversion for alcohol and inhalant misuse (Jun). Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2006-07 reported a significant increase in cocaine seizures and arrests, including a 635% increase in the quantity of border seizures, a 1278% increase in the quantity of domestic seizures and a 76% increase in cocaine arrests (Jun). Australian Federal Police and Customs arrested 20 people in relation to ecstasy and cocaine importation, trafficking and money laundering in Australia. The arrests were the culmination of a 12 month multi-agency investigation involving Australian Federal Police, Australian Customs, Victoria Police, Tasmania Police, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, the Australian Crime Commission, and international law enforcement agencies throughout Asia and Europe that followed the seizure of the world’s largest single seizure of MDMA: 4.4 tonnes or 15 million tablets, with a street value of $440 million. The tablets were discovered hidden in tins of tomatoes shipped from Italy to Australia in June 2007 and replaced with inert substances to enable monitoring of the distribution and trafficking network (Aug). AFP Police Commissioner Mick Keelty conceded that in spite of the massive MDMA busts, local demand would keep the trade thriving. He therefore argued that we needed to treat demand as much as we deal with supply (Aug). The Australian Industrial Relations Commissions made a landmark ruling on “Implementation of random drug testing: use of oral fluids or urine as specimen for testing.” The AIRC was asked to rule on whether it was just to use urine testing instead of oral testing, given the formers wide window of detection and increased potential to detect actions undertaken by employees that may have no consequential impact on employees’ actions at work. The AIRC concluded that given no Australian laboratory has been accredited for urine testing “…the implementation of a urine based random drug testing regime …. would be unjust and unreasonable ….” But once accreditation is obtained urine testing could be introduced instead of oral testing (Aug). The AFL (Australian Football League) announced 98.9% of players tested in 2007 were drug free. But it also widened its illicit drug testing regime by introducing hair testing to test players in the off season and testing for a wider range of illicit substances. The new regime enters into force in Jan 2009 (Aug). The High Court made a landmark ruling when all six judges ruled that the NSW Crime Commission acted improperly when it allowed 6kg of cocaine to be sold on the streets in an undercover drugs operation. The High Court said that such conduct risked endangering the lives of drug users and hence was irreconcilable with state and federal prohibitions on supply (Sep). New book “Drug Use and Mental Health: Effective Responses to Co-Occurring Drug and Mental Health Problems” edited by Professor Steve Allsop showed that people with serious co- occurring drug and mental health problems tended to access health services more frequently than individuals affected by either problem in isolation, but that they were more impaired, experienced more disability and had poorer treatment outcomes. This was attributed partly to a lack of service integration for people with co-occurring drug and mental health problems (Sep). 2007 DUMA report released. Report found that in 2007 66% police detainees tested positive for any illicit drug (cannabis, cocaine, heroin, meth or benzodiazepines), a rate that was stable since 2006. Detected use of cannabis and methamphetamine had decreased as had levels of dependency on illicit drugs (Sep). The Australian Crime Commission estimated that $4-$12 billion in illicit drug money was being sent offshore annually. The unpublished estimates suggested that authorities were significantly underestimating the quantity of drugs that were undetected at Australia’s borders (Sep). Report released by the Australian Institute for Family Studies into “Improving outcomes for children living in families with parental substance misuse: What do we know and what should we do.” Report concluded that children raised in parents misusing substances do not fare well due to issues such as impaired responsiveness and ability to prepare meals. However it also noted these are often related to a broader range of factors, not just substance use/misuse. The report noted that childhood outcomes can be improved by treatment interventions, but that holistic responses are more effective than use of solely behavioural based responses (Sep). Report on “Police drug diversion: a study of criminal offending outcomes” released by the Australian Institute of Criminology. The report demonstrated that that majority of offenders did not reoffend following diversion. Moreover in spite of marked differences in offending between jurisdictions the proportionate decrease in offending after diversion was relatively consistent across all jurisdictions, with 69-86% offenders without records and 31-54% offenders with records not reoffending within 18 months (Oct). TGA ordered that Naltrexone implant pioneer George O’Neil cease production of Naltrexone implants because despite eight years of use he had failed to meet the regulatory standards (Oct). AFP Police Commissioner Mick Keelty remarked on the high level of drug seizures in recent years and the need to stop measuring drug law enforcement success in terms of the size of seizures. He also advocated the need to devise better policy approaches that combine supply reduction with demand and harm reduction (Oct). The ANCD launched a new website to support homelessness services help clients with drug and alcohol problems and called for a much bigger investment and focus on the levels of drug and alcohol issues amongst homeless populations and the identification of optimum service responses (Oct). Report on National Prison Entrants’ Bloodborne Virus and Risk Behaviour Survey 2007 released. Report showed 55% of prisoners had histories of injecting drug use (IDU). Prisoners who were IDU had much higher rates of HCV and Hepatitis B with e.g. 58% male IDU and 78% female IDU were HCV positive compared to 9% and 2% for non-IDU. IDUs also had much higher rates of prior prison experience (83% compared to 48%), particularly repeat prior experiences (Oct). Mission Australia survey of young people aged 11-24 showed between 2007 and 2008 concern for drugs had risen from 20.1% to 26.0% making drugs one of the top three issues of concern to young people. And in four jurisdictions drugs had become the primary issue of concern: ACT, NT, SA and Vic (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 21 The AFL (Australian Football League) Commission lifted its 12 month ban on former West Coast Eagles player Ben Cousins following his suspension for “bringing the game into disrepute” over a number of methamphetamine related incidents. The AFL Commission said he could play football again provided he met strict drug testing rules including submitting to up to three urine tests per week and up to four hair tests per year. A positive drug test could lead to his immediate suspension (Nov). National Strategy to Prevent the Diversion of Precursor Chemicals into Illicit Drug Manufacture (National Precursor Strategy) received recurrent funding of $1.068m. Report from the National Institute of Forensic Science identified a gap in the national intelligence picture on illicit drugs. Drugs seized at the borders were being analysed, but there was very limited information on those seized on the streets. Victoria Police, in partnership with the Federal Attorney General’s Department, produced a DVD to educate law enforcement and the judiciary across Australia about the dangers and associated risks in the manufacture of ATS and clandestine laboratories.

2007 National Drugs Campaign 2007 – “Where’s your head at”? & “Talking with your kids about drugs.” Report from the Inquiry into the manufacture, importation and use of amphetamines and other synthetic drugs in Australia. Recommended standardisation of analysis and data collection, continuation of Project STOP, national constancy in legislative approaches and greater attention to harm reduction and prevention strategies (Feb). From “GO to WHOA” a new training package on psycho-stimulants was commissioned by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing to increase skills and educate health professionals e.g. GPS and nurses on dealing with psycho-stimulants. The training package devised by Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre included face to face sessions and an online portal on psycho-stimulants, pharmacological effects, risks associated with use and ways of responding to psycho-stimulant use (Feb). Launch of the Australian Alcohol and Other Drugs Charter by the Australian National Council on Drugs. The Charter was developed for the drug and alcohol sector and outlines guiding principles, expectations and goals with regard to drugs as well as rights and responsibilities with regard to drug use and the development and implementation of policies and programs, at all community levels and for different settings and sectors (Feb). National Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) Strategy Consultation Paper released (Mar). Ben Cousins, Australian Football League Brownlow medallist and former captain of the West Coast Eagles, was suspended from the club for personal reasons involving drug use. He was subsequently admitted for rehabilitation in Los Angeles, United States and was ordered by the AFL Head to “get his life in order” (Mar). The AFL (Australian Football League) widened its illicit drug testing regime in response to the controversy involving West Coast Eagles players. The new scheme included illicit drug testing on weekends and a three strikes policy involving a maximum of a 12 match suspension for a third offence (Mar). National roll out of Project STOP – tracking sales of pseudoephedrine (Apr). Federal Government committed $150 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues (for 2007-08 to 2010-11) as part of the 2007-2008 budget. This included $79.5 million to enable a third round of funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP), $22.9 million for Amphetamine-Type Stimulants Grants Program, $9.2 million to add to the national drugs campaign & $37.9 to improve law enforcement response to amphetamines production/supply (May). National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre (NCPIC) set up to educate and train health professionals with the aim of increasing early intervention and reducing cannabis use (Jun). Ninth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2007.” Results indicated that between 2004 and 2007 there was a significant reduction in the use of illicit drugs over the last 12 months (from 15% to 13%), particularly recent use of cannabis. There were significant reductions in lifetime use of tobacco and alcohol but increases in lifetime use of some illicit drugs e.g. heroin, cocaine and ecstasy (Jul-Nov). CounsellingOnline service rolled out as a national program, endorsed by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. The service was operated by Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre and provided free drug and alcohol counseling for drug users, family or friends, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through an online service (Jul). Andrew Johns, former captain of the National Rugby League, revealed live on the Channel Nine “Footy Show” that he had regularly taken ecstasy throughout his playing career. Johns claimed the drugs helped him in dealing with the high level of pressure associated with his career as an elite sportsman (Aug). The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Family and Human Services chaired by the Hon Bronwyn Bishop released its report into the impact of illicit drug use on families. The report titled “the winnable war on drugs” recommended that the Australian Government replace the current NDS focus on harm minimisation with harm prevention and treatment with the ultimate aim of achieving permanent drug-free status. Other recommendations included that funding be preferentially provided to abstinence-based programs, that takeaway methadone be disallowed for parents, and that welfare payments be linked with child protection concerns (Sep). Evaluation on methadone maintenance by the National Centre for HIV and Social Research “Methadone maintenance treatment in New South Wales and Victoria: Takeaways, diversion and other key issues” concluded that takeaways were vitally important to all clients, facilitating family responsibilities, ease of finding work, self-esteem and ability to cease illicit drug use. They found that diversion of methadone was often a result of unmet treatment demand and the economic disadvantage of clients. Report concluded that easy fixes such as diluting methadone or limiting doses may have unintended negative consequences and may reduce retention (Sep). Chris Mainwaring, former Australian Football League star from the West Coast Eagles, died from a cocktail of drugs including cocaine, ecstasy, cannabis, Roaccutane, anti-depressants and alcohol. One week latter fellow West Coast Eagles star, Ben Cousins was sacked by his club, following his arrest for a drug charge (the charge was subsequently dropped) (Oct). Coalition Government released “Tough on Drugs” election policy involving compulsory welfare quarantining for people who have been convicted of criminal drug offences involving hard drugs, assistance for jobseekers and uniform national illicit drug offences (Nov). Labor Government elected under Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (Nov). The Council Of Australian Governments increased funding for Indigenous substance and alcohol rehabilitation and treatment services: $100 million (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 22 2006 Restrictions introduced on sale of medications containing pseudoephedrine requiring that all medication be stored away from the public and sold by pharmacists (Jan). The Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk was established between the Commonwealth, Northern Territory, South Australian and Western Australian governments in a joint operation designed to reduce cross-border supply of licit and illicit substances (Jan). COAG Mental Health Package announced (Feb). Dr John Herron appointed as Chair of the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) (Feb). Four Corners Report: “The Ice Age” heralded the beginning of media attention into methamphetamine (Mar). National Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Drug Use During Pregnancy, Birth and the Early Development Years of the Newborn released (Mar). Restrictions increased on sale of medications containing pseudoephedrine: Products with higher concentrations of pseudoephedrine required a doctor’s prescription (Apr). Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone®) made available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (Apr). National Cannabis Strategy 2006-2009 endorsed (May). Report released: “Evidence based answers to cannabis questions: a review of the literature” and accompanying booklet “Cannabis: answers to your questions” by the Australian National Council on Drugs provided a review of the evidence and answered key questions in relation to cannabis (May). MCDS endorsed development of a National Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) Strategy. Consultation paper for strategy to be developed by the National Drug Research Institute and the Australian Institute of Criminology (May). Department of Health and Ageing released updated report “Drug testing kits: Detailed discussion paper on social, health and legal issues.” Report concluded it was unable to find evidence on the social or health consequences of providing ecstasy testing kits and whether it would increase or reduce harmful using behaviour (May). Federal Government provided $214.1 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues as part of the 2006-2007 Budget. Included $136.1 to increase community awareness and train drug and alcohol workers of co-morbid mental health-drug issues (May). Two new sets of guidelines introduced by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing: Management of Patients with Psychostimulant Toxicity: Guidelines for Emergency Departments and Management of Patients with Psychostimulant Toxicity: Guidelines for Ambulance Services (May). The Council Of Australian Governments agreed to a long-term generational commitment to overcome Indigenous disadvantage and to adopt and fund a collaborative approach to the reduction of violence and child abuse in Indigenous communities. $130 million was allocated over four years including $49.3 million to expand drug and alcohol rehabilitation and treatment services and hence reduce one of the major factors contributing to the violence and child abuse (Jul). The Council on Australian Governments adopted a National Action Plan on Mental Health (2006-2011) and committed $1.9 billion over five years to reduce the prevalence and severity of mental illness in Australia and the prevalence of risk factors such as illicit drug use that contribute to the onset of mental illness. Key initiatives included alerting the public to the links between mental health and drug issues and integrating mental health and drug and alcohol services (Jul). Launch of Headspace, a national program designed to provide information, support and services to young people and their families across Australia for mental health and related substance use problems (Jul). Launch of the report “Situational analysis of illicit drug issues and responses in the Asia Pacific region” by the Australian National Council on Drugs summarised for 14 nations including China, Hong Kong, Laos, Thailand and Timor-Leste the national prevalence of illicit drug use, country responses to illicit drug issues, and Australian and international involvement in relation to illicit drugs (Sep). National Leadership Forum on Ice held in Sydney (Dec). The Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) program expanded to include Footscray in Victoria and Darwin and Alice Springs in the Northern Territory.

2005 Report released: “Mapping national drug treatment capacity” by the Australian National Council on Drugs included a broad overview of approaches to service planning and resource allocation (Feb). National Drugs Campaign 2005 – “Speed”, “Ecstasy”, “Marijuana” (Apr). Trial of retractable needles and syringes cancelled after evaluation showed they could increase public health risks (May). Federal Government provided $21.8 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues as part of the 2005-2006 Budget. Included $0.85 million for the National Illicit Drugs Campaign, $8.0 million for Capacity Building in Indigenous Communities & $12.0 million for the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (May). MCDS agreed not to endorse the development or use of drug testing kits for personal use at the point of consumption (May). Ketamine was rescheduled on the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule from a Schedule 4 to Schedule 8 drug (May). Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone®) registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Jul). The second National Hepatitis C Strategy 2005-2008 was adopted (Jul). Inquiry established into the manufacture, importation and use of amphetamines and other synthetic drugs in Australia (Nov). Project STOP pilot developed in partnership between QLD Police and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia to track sales of pseudoephedrine and prevent their illicit diversion (Oct). The Law and Justice Amendment (Serious Drug Offences and Other Measures) Act 2005 (the SDO Act) introduced the model serious drug offences (developed by the then Model Criminal Code Officers' Committee) in Part 9.1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995 (the Criminal Code). The SDO Act also moved existing offences under the Customs Act 1901 for the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 23 import/export of controlled substances and placed them in the Criminal Code. This ensured all serious drug offences were in a central statute, keeping the Customs Act as primarily a regulatory statute (Dec). Australian Customs implement Stridor Strike Teams to target illicit drug precursor imports. The teams, comprised of officers from intelligence, investigations and enforcement operations, sought to devise innovative approaches to 'target' development and to provide a more flexible and agile response to illicit drug precursor importations (2005-2007).

2004 Soft gelatin Temazepam capsules removed from the Australian market following evidence of harms from injecting Temazepam (Feb and Mar). Prime Minister John Howard announced funding of almost $18 million to 63 organisations as part of stage 2 funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP) (funding from 2003-2006) (Apr). Report on barriers to treatment released: “Barriers and Incentives to treatment for illicit drug users.” Report concluded that lack of access to treatment, long waiting lists and lack of support by health professionals. Report recommended improving national coverage of treatment services, monitoring the gap between demand and supply, and diversifying responses to meet different needs and comorbidity issues (Apr). Report released: “Indigenous drug and alcohol projects: elements of best practice” by the Australian National Council on Drugs identified projects which could serve as examples to other organisatons providing alcohol and other drug intervention services (May). The National Drug Strategy: Australia's integrated framework 2004-2009 adopted (Jun). Report on Australia’s correctional response to drug use released: “Supply, demand and harm reduction strategies in Australian prisons: implementation, cost and evaluation” by the Australian National Council on Drugs. Report concluded that supply reduction strategies e.g. drug detection dogs were widely used but were very costly and had not been evaluated. In contrast demand and harm reduction strategies e.g., detoxification and condom provision were less expensive and had proven positive impacts, but were less likely to be implemented in Australian prisons. Report recommended expanding use of demand and harm reduction strategies (Jul). Report on clinical trials of pharmacotherapies for opioid dependence released: “National Evaluation of Pharmacotherapies for Opioid Dependence (NEPOD).” Comparisons of treatment categories of methadone maintenance, buprenorphine maintenance, LAAM maintenance, naltrexone treatment, rapid opioid detoxification with anaesthesia or sedation, outpatient detoxification using buprenorphine, conventional inpatient detoxification and conventional outpatient detoxification led to the conclusion that all heroin users experienced reductions in criminal activity and heroin use after entering treatment but that the agonist maintenance treatments of LAAM, methadone and buprenorphine retained significantly more heroin users than naltrexone treatment. Overall LAAM was the most cost-effective treatment, but Methadone maintenance was the most cost-effective treatment available in Australia (Oct). MCDS endorsed development of a National Cannabis Strategy (Nov). Eighth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2004.” Results indicated that between 2001 and 2004 there had been a decline in the proportion of the population, from 16.9% to 15.3%, who had used an illicit drug in the past 12 months. Australian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) renamed as the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) reflecting a shift in focus to include New Zealand. National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) established as the principal advisory group to the Commonwealth government on Indigenous drug and alcohol issues (Dec). ANEX – Association for the Prevention and Harm Reduction Programs Australia was endorsed by the Australian Needle Syringe Program sector as the national voice and advocate for Needle Syringe Programs and harm reduction. Abolition of the National Drug Strategy National Expert Advisory Committees. New national guidelines produced by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing “Psychostimulants - management of acute behavioural disturbances” to assist Australian police services to effectively and safely manage individuals who present with psychostimulant toxicity, and pose a significant risk to themselves or others. The Drug and Alcohol Nurses Association (DANA), established in 1984 as the peak professional body for nurses and midwives in the ATOD field, was re-launched as Drug and Alcohol Nurses of Australasia.

2003 Establishment of the Asia Pacific Drug Issues Committee by the Australian National Council on Drugs to focus on drug issues in the Asia Pacific region (Mar). Federal Government provided $316 million in new funding (over four years) for the National Illicit Drug Strategy as part of the 2003-04 Budget. It included $215 million for IDDI, $86 million to continue existing efforts e.g. $36 million for Needle Syringe Programs and $28 million for a range of new priorities e.g. $12 to develop new supply reduction initiatives and funding for a new initiatives. These included $2 million for the National Psychostimulants Initiative to identify good practice models for treatment and provide training and support for GPs and health workers, $4.4 million for the National Comorbidity Initaitive to improve coordination and responses to individuals who had both mental health and drug use issues, and $4 million for a National Rural and Regional Initiative to improve access to treatment for rural illicit drug users and $5.4 million for a National Strategy to Prevent the Diversion of Precursor Chemicals into Illicit Drug Manufacture (2003-04 to 2007-08) (May). Reports from MSIC that use of and harms associated with temazepam gel capsules had increased in previous 12 months despite the rescheduling of temazepam capsules. Led to submission by MSIC and Kirketon Road Centre to the NSW Health Department and the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council to remove capsules from the market (Jun). Report released: “Diversion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth from juvenile justice” from the Australian National Council on Drugs recommends the development of a greater number and range of culturally appropriate diversion options that specifically target Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth (Jul). National Drug Strategy Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Complementary Action Plan 2003 – 2009 released (Aug). Report released from the House of Representatives, Standing Committee on Family and Community Affairs, chaired by Kay Hull MP: “Road to recovery: Report on the inquiry into substance abuse in Australian Communities.” Report made 128 recommendations including that the Commonwealth, state and territory governments replace the current focus on harm minimisation with a focus on harm prevention and treatment. Report also called for more effort in preventing the uptake of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs through education campaigns Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 24 and regulation and increased early intervention (Aug). Fourth evaluation of the National Drug Strategic Framework by Success Works. Report titled “Evaluation of the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 -2003-04” concluded that the NDSF had been a success but recommended renewed focus on partnerships between IGCD and ANCD, increased involvement of the education sector, increased attention to the dissemination of research, replacement of the national expert advisory structures and improved coordination of the NDSF with other related strategies (Sep). Prime Minister John Howard announced funding of more than $41.5 million to 98 organisations as part of stage 1 funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP) (Oct). First report from the Drug Use Careers of Offenders study released: ‘Drugs and Crime: a study of incarcerated male offenders.’ Study found that 62% of their sample of incarcerated male offenders reported current regular use of illicit drugs, and that of those who reported use of illicit drugs 51% attributed all or most of their offending to drug use. The authors estimated that 18% of serious offending could be causally attributed to either illicit drug intoxication or dependence and an additional 12% to illicit drug and alcohol intoxication or dependence. But the study also showed that contrary to expectations drug-using offenders tended to commence offending prior to illicit drug use and offenders who were more active in the criminal market, who had greater contact with the criminal justice system (especially property and regular multiple offenders), and who reported more frequent use of illegal drugs were those more likely to have commenced offending prior to illegal drug use (Nov). Report released: “Dealing with risk: a multidisciplinary study of injecting drug use, hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses in Australia” by the Australian National Council on Drugs identified that risky injecting is as much a social practice as an individual behavior and that risks of BBV transmission were increased by multiple social factors including the stashing of syringes for re-use. The report concluded that for interventions to be effective they need to fit the imperatives of the daily lives of injecting drug users (Nov). Australian National Council on AIDS, Hepatitis C and Related Diseases (ANCAHRD) replaced by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on AIDS, Sexual Health and Hepatitis (MACASHH). NDARC Report showed that restriction of temazepam capsules had led to a decrease in temazepam gel capsule prescriptions at a population level, but no reduction in the proportions of injecting of temazepam gel capsule preparations by IDUs. IDUs continued to obtain the capsules from doctors and on the ‘street.’ A survey of users of temazepan gel capsules found most had suffered complications including abscesses, cellulitis, skin ulcers, nerve damage and distal limb amputation. The Australian National Council on Drugs commenced publishing of a free magazine “Of Substance” (funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing) that addressed alcohol, tobacco and other drug issues and problems in Australia. The primary audience was frontline workers in the drug and alcohol field; however, it was also relevant to health professionals, social workers, educators, researchers, law enforcers and policy-makers. 2002 Australian police agencies (commencing with NSW Police) started to deploy drug detection dogs as a mainstream strategy for drug law enforcement (Feb). Position paper was launched by the Australian National Council on Drugs: “Needle and Syringe Programs” which called for trials of needle and syringe programs in prisons (Mar). Federal Government 2002-03 Budget increased funding for National Illicit Drug Strategy through an additional $14 million for community partnership initiatives, $65 million for non- government organisations treatment programs and $27.5 million to support the development of retractable needle and syringes (May). Australian Health Ministers’ Conference recommended to the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council that Temazepam capsules be restricted as a Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme item. 10-mg temazepam capsules was then shifted from an unrestricted to a restricted access (May). National Illicit Drug Indicators Project rolled out for all states and territories, following success of ACT Drug Indicators Project pilot. Project linked data from state and national sources concerning drug use prevalence, treatment, overdoses, morbidity, seizures, purity and drug-related crime so as to increase knowledge of trends in drug use and drug-related harm (Jun). Interim evaluation of the National Hepatitis C Strategy: “The Road Not Taken: Review of the National Hepatitis C Strategy” (Jul). Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 adopted with the aim of confiscating the proceeds of crime including current and future benefits that could be derived such as through commercial exploitation of offending (Oct). Report on the Return on Investment in Needle and Syringe Programs in Australia concluded that between 1991 and 2000 NSPs had cost Australia $141 million but saved 25,000 HIV infections, 21,000 HCV infections and $2.4 to $7.7 billion (Oct). Prime Minister John Howard announced that the Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative had been a success and that an additional $215 million would be committed to the second stage of the IDDI (from July 2003-July 2007) (Dec). A National Working Group on the Diversion of Precursor Chemicals was established to stop over-the-counter medicines being diverted into illicit drug manufacture (Dec). Report released: “Drug policy: the Australian approach” by the Australian National Council on Drugs used consultations with stakeholders to document core values underpinning the Australian approach to policy making: independence; a diversity of voices; the good sense of bureaucracy; frank and fearless advice; checks and balances; and leading the community (Dec). National Heroin Signature Program was replaced by the Australian Illicit Drug Intelligence Program which physically and chemically profiled border seizures of heroin, plus cocaine and amphetamine type substances such as MDMA and methylamphetamine. The Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) pilot program extended, enabling continued monitoring of drug use amongst police detainees at the pilot sites, plus the introduction of three new sites in Brisbane Qld and Adelaide and Elizabeth in SA.

2001 Heroin shortage reported in Sydney. Both injecting drug users and key informants noted that heroin availability had reduced, purity decreased and price increased (Jan). National Drugs Campaign 2001 – “Lost Dreams” and “Ad within an Ad” (Mar). Australia’s first Medically Supervised Injecting Centre commenced as a pilot in Kings Cross, NSW (Mar). National Action Plan on Illicit Drugs 2001 – 2002-03 endorsed by the MCDS (Jul).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 25 Report released: “Heroin overdose: prevalence, correlates, consequences and interventions” from the Australian National Council on Drugs. This estimated that deaths among adults aged 15–44 years attributed to opioid overdose had increased 110 fold between 1964 and 1998 and that the rate of overdose could be reduced by expanding access to treatment, education of heroin users, distribution of naloxone or introduction of medically supervised injecting centres (Sep). Report released: “Structural determinants of youth drug use” from the Australian National Council on Drugs concluded that there is a need to acknowledge that youth drug use is affected by a range of macro-environmental factors, including socio-economic gaps, urban planning, social capital & values and beliefs, and that failure to address these factors will limit capacity to reduce drug use (Sep). Report released: “Evidence supporting treatment: the effectiveness of interventions for illicit drug use” from the Australian National Council on Drugs reviewed research evidence of outcomes that could be attributed to various treatment approaches for users of opioid drugs, psychostimulants and cannabis (Oct). Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation established to address prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research into the misuse of alcohol and petrol, paint and glue (Oct). Prime Minister John Howard promised that if re-elected he would expand tough on drugs and support the development of retractable needle and syringes (Nov). The 2001 report from the Illicit Drug Reporting System confirmed there that there had been a dramatic reduction in heroin availability across Australia, particularly between January and March 2001. Price increased and purity decreased in most jurisdictions e.g. price of heroin increased in NSW from $220 to $320 per gram, price per cap doubled from $25 to $50 and purity of street heroin fell from 62% to 51%. This coincided with reductions in use, particularly daily use of heroin (Dec). Seventh national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2001.” Results indicated that 37.7% Australians had used an illicit drug at some time in their lives and 16.9% had used illicit drugs in the previous 12 months. Report by the National Drug Research Strategy Committee presented to the Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs (IGCD) recommending the establishment of a National Drug Research Strategy as foreshadowed in the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to 2002-03. IGCD Review of Advisory Structures Committee commissioned Professor Jim Rankin to review the advisory structures supporting the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to 2002-03. First National Drug and Poisons Scheduling Committee (NDPSC) conditions placed upon pharmacy Pseudoephedrine. The regulations applied to single active products (i.e. pseudo only) and meant pseudo packs of 60s & 90s were restricted to schedule 4 and pack sizes of 30s were restricted to Schedule 3 or S3R.

2000 Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing to enable national data collection on drug market trends and provide an early warning system on illicit drugs. This followed the success of pilots which commenced in NSW, Victoria and SA in 1996, 1997 and 1998 respectively. Launch of first Australian Hepatitis C strategy: National Hepatitis C Strategy 1999-2000 to 2003-2004 (Jun). National Minimum Data Set on Alcohol and other drugs treatment services established (Jul). The Australian Standard Classification of Drugs of Concern (ASCDC), first edition, was released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The ASCDC aimed to ensure the compatibility and comparability of data on problem drugs derived from a range of different statistical and administrative systems and thereby assist government planners, policy analysts and social researchers by providing a consistent framework for the classification of drug related data. Seven core groups were specified: analgesics (e.g. heroin); sedatives and hypnotics (e.g. GHB and ketamine); stimulants and hallucinogens (e.g. amphetamine, MDMA, cocaine and cannabinoids – including cannabis); anabolic agents and selected hormones; antidepressants and antipsychotics; volatile solvents; and miscellaneous (Jul). Buprenorphine (as Subutex®) was registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Oct). The number of opioid related deaths in Australia exceeded 1000 for the first time. The Australian Bureau of Statistics showed a total of 1116 deaths occurred in 1999, a rate of 101.2 per 100,000 population aged 15-54. Drug Use Careers of Offenders (DUCO) study commenced. Funded by the Australian Government Attorney General’s Department under the National Illicit Drugs Strategy and managed by the Australian Institute of Criminology, the first study examined the link between drugs and crime amongst adult sentenced male inmates (Dec).

1999 Naltrexone registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for use as part of a comprehensive treatment program for alcohol dependence (Jan). Launch of Commonwealth Department of Health report: “Hepatitis C: A Review of Australia’s response.” This reviewed the prevalence of Hepatitis C and the performance of the National Hepatitis C Action Plan. Report recommended that Australia adopt a National Hepatitis C Strategy (Jan). National School Drug Education Strategy adopted (May). Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases (ANCARD) replaced by the Australian National Council on AIDS, Hepatitis C and Related Diseases (ANCAHRD) (Sep). National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund (NDLERF) established to support evidence-based research into drug law enforcement (Oct). Council of Australian Government-Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative signed off including an agreement for a nationally consistent approach to the diversion of minor drug offenders to drug education and treatment. Prime Minister John Howard allocated $110 million to first stage of the IDDI (and $110 million for support measures – school and community initiatives) (Nov). The Australian Drug Foundation established Somazone a website designed for and run by youth aged 12-25 (Nov). Data showed that the number of fatal heroin overdoses climbed to 737 fatal heroin overdoses in 1998, a 23% increase since 1997. This sparked increased public concern and warnings of a national disaster (Dec). Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS) funded to conduct first large-scale prospective study of treatment outcome for heroin dependence to be conducted in Australia. Compared treatments of detoxification, methadone, and residential treatment (including TCs). (Month/Year???) Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) 3 year pilot study commenced to provide measures of drug consumption amongst police detainees and information on current and prior criminal Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 26 behaviour and treatment utilisation. Pilot sites included Bankstown and Parramatta in NSW, Southport in Qld and East Perth in WA. First Australasian Drug Strategy Conference (ADSC) held in response to recognition by the Australian and New Zealand Police Commissioners that drugs were a major policing challenge & that shared knowledge would facilitate best practice strategies.

1998 MCDS approved National Heroin Supply Reduction Strategy and National Supply Reduction Strategy for Drugs Other than Heroin which aimed to enhance interdiction at the international border, improve coordination, technology and best practice. Launch of the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) by the then Prime Minister to provide independent policy advice to the Prime Minister and Australian Government - Chaired by Major Brian Watters (Mar). Rohypnol - more commonly known as the "date rape pill" – was reclassified as a Schedule 8 drug on the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule. This placed it in the same category as heroin, LSD and marijuana (Jun). National Evaluation of Pharmacotherapies for Opioid Dependence (NEPOD) commenced as a three year project. Evaluation aimed to develop and implement a range of effective, evidence-based, best practice pharmacotherapy treatment options for people who were opioid dependent (Jul). Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases Hepatitis C Virus Projections Working Group published report: Estimates and Prevalence of the Hepatitis C Virus Epidemic in Australia. This estimated that in 1997 there were 190,000 people infected with HCV, but prevalence was much higher (50-70%) amongst injecting drug users (Aug). Evidence released that heroin overdoses had increased from 70 to 550 between 1979 and 1995, a 6 fold increase in the standardized rate of overdose (Sep 1998) “Tough on Drugs” extended (Nov). National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to 2002-03 released (Nov). National Heroin Supply Reduction Strategy and the National Supply Reduction Strategy for Illicit Drugs other than Heroin merged and replaced with National Supply Reduction Strategy for Heroin and other Illicit Drugs (Nov). Sixth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 1998.” Results illustrated that between 1995 and 1998 lifetime and recent use increased across all illicit drugs. Recent use of cannabis increased from 13.2% to 17.9%.

1997 Family Drug Support was formed after its founder Tony Trimingham’s son died of a heroin overdose. Aimed to support families struggling with drug use issues. National Health and Medical Research Council launched report: “A strategy for the detection and management of Hepatitis C in Australia” (Mar). Third evaluation of National Drug Strategy “Mapping the Future” by Prof Single and Prof Rohl. Noted confusion over term harm minimisation and insufficient role of NGO sector and fragmented management (Apr). “Treatment Works” week established by the Alcohol and other Drug Council of Australia (Jun). Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy meeting held to discuss ACT heroin trial. Trial supported by Commonwealth health minister and health ministers from ACT, NSW, SA, Tas and Vic. Opposed by health ministers from NT, Qld and WA. i.e. meeting concluded 6-3 in favour of the trial (Jul). The Australian Women’s Weekly and Channel Seven’s Today Tonight introduced the Australian public to naltrexone with the story subtitled “I woke up cured of heroin.” The story told of a middle class heroin addict who was miraculously cured from addiction after the magazine had flown her for naltrexone treatment in Israel (Jul). Prime Minister John Howard blocked ACT heroin trial (19 Aug). Diversion was placed on Ministerial Council of Drug Strategy agenda (Aug). Prime Minister’s “Tough on Drugs” strategy commenced (Nov). Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP) commenced as part of the Tough on Drugs strategy. NGOTGP aimed to fund the establishment, expansion, upgrading and operation of non-government alcohol and other drug treatment services (Nov). Community Partnerships Initiative (CPI), a community grants program commenced as part of the Tough on Drugs strategy. The CPI aimed to prevent and reduce drug related harm through projects that promoted and supported the establishment of community driven drug illicit prevention and early intervention initiatives (Nov). National Heroin Signature Program commenced to physically and chemically profile border seizures of heroin and their packing materials to generate strategic and tactical forensic drug intelligence.

1996 Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released second report by Collins and Lapsley titled “The social costs of drug abuse in Australia in 1988 and 1992.” Report concluded that the social cost of drug abuse in Australia in 1992 was at a minimum more than $18, 845 million. Tobacco was the most costly drug, incurring 67 per cent of total costs, while alcohol accounted for 24 per cent and illicit drugs 9 per cent of total costs (Feb). ADCA Diversion workshop held involving fifty stakeholders from law enforcement, health and attorney generals departments and representatives from drug diversion programs. Workshop led to the identification of best-practice principles of diversion and called for an expansion of diversion programs in Australia (Oct). Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases (ANCARD) replaced the Australian National Council on AIDS and was established as the peak advisory body to the federal government on HIV and AIDS. First Annual Remembrance Ceremony held in Canberra "for those who lose their lives to illicit drugs". This ceremony has been held annually since that time and has triggered many other ceremonies in Australia and throughout the world (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 27 1995 Fifth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 1995.” National review of the provision of methadone in Australia. Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform was formed following a high number of heroin overdose deaths between Christmas and Easter of that year (Apr).

1994 National Cannabis Task Force recommended that possession, unsanctioned cultivation, sale and non-therapeutic use of cannabis in any quantity should remain illegal but that all Australian jurisdictions consider removing criminal penalties for personal use/possession of cannabis. Launch of the Australian Drug Law Reform Foundation (Apr). Launch of Drug Free Australia as an unfunded national network promoting a drug free Australia. First National Hepatitis C Action Plan developed and endorsed by the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council. Strategy aimed to minimise transmission and the social and personal impact of Hepatitis C (Oct). First voluntary Code of Conduct developed between industry and law enforcement regarding diversion of chemicals into illicit drug manufacture. Code was adopted by members of the Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association (PACIA) and Science Industry Australia (SIA) and sought to cooperate with government and law enforcement agencies and prevent diversion of chemicals and equipment into illicit production of drugs.

1993 Re-launch of NCADA as the National Drug Strategy (NDS). First National Policy on Methadone adopted. Commonwealth funding for implementation of the NDS provided to law enforcement for the first time. Proportion of Commonwealth funds (matched with equal state funds) scheduled to increase to 3% in 1993-94, 7% in 1994-95 and 10% in 1995-96. Australian Medical and Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs (AMPSAD) renamed as the Australian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) (Nov). The Australian Parliamentary Group for Drug Law Reform launched the “Charter for Drug Law Reform” which called for an end to prohibition (Nov). Fourth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1993.” The 1988 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances came into force in Australia. The final Australian jurisdiction implemented Needle Syringe Programs making it a national policy. National drug education campaign on amphetamines: “Speed catches up with you.”

1992 Manly meeting: Decision was made to assign greater role to law enforcement in administration of the National Drug Strategy. The National Drug Strategy Committee convened a National Task Force on Cannabis to produce papers summarising the current state of knowledge about cannabis (Apr). National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA) established in Adelaide. Launch of the Australian Parliamentary Group for Drug Law Reform.

1991 Second evaluation of NCADA: Prof Ian Webster (Chair). Report titled “No Quick Fix: An evaluation of NCADA 1992” concluded there was “no quick fix” to the drug problem and NCADA needed greater strategic direction e.g. introduction of a national drug strategic unit to oversee implementation. Third national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1991.” Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released a report by Collins and Lapsley, “Estimating the economic costs of drug abuse in Australia.” This estimated that in 1988 drug abuse cost the Australian community more than $14.3 billion, equivalent to 4.6% of gross domestic product for that year. Tobacco cost $9.7 billion, alcohol cost $3.9 billion and illicit drugs cost $1.2 billion.

1990 National Centre for HIV Social Research established. Commonwealth Government ratified the United Nations Convention on Illicit Trafficking in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances. First national census of clients of treatment service agencies (COTSA) conducted (Mar). National Health and Medical Research Council released first formal statement on Hepatitis C.

1989 National HIV/AIDS Strategy launched – emphasis on prevention and harm reduction. Commonwealth Government funded first injecting drug user organisations. First Australian Hepatitis C antibody studies initiated. Showed a high prevalence of Hepatitis C amongst injecting drug users. Release of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on the National Criminal Authority report: “Drugs, Crime and Society.” Report examined the efficacy and social costs of drug law enforcement and concluded that prohibition had not worked and was associated with considerable costs to users and society. Committee outlined a number of possible alternatives to the current policy, including harsher penalties, decriminalisation and regulation, but did not come to a consensus as to which alternative was best (May).

1988 First evaluation of NCADA by 5 person taskforce. Report titled “Report of the NCADA Task Force on Evaluation (1988)” concluded had been considerable progress – expansion of treatment services, community awareness and better monitoring and evaluation. Australian IV League (AIVL) began as unfunded national network representing drug users and drug user organizations. Second national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1988.” Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 28 Australian National Council on AIDS established.

1987 National Centre for HIV Epidemiology and Research began first Australian clinical trial of AZT, a promising anti–retroviral (Feb). Commonwealth government launched a $2.9m National AIDS Education Campaign, including the Grim Reaper television advertisement. AZT approved as a treatment, agreement between Commonwealth and States to share costs

1986 National “Drug Offensive” media campaign launched (Apr). Two research centres established: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) in Sydney and National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) (then called the National Centre for Research into Prevention of Drug Abuse) in Perth. Federal government provided funding and national recognition to newly formed Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations. First Needle Syringe Program (NSP) opened - Darlinghurst (Nov).

1985 NCADA – National Campaign Against Drug Abuse adopted at Special Premiers Conference. Campaign heralded a partnerships approach to illicit and licit drugs between federal and state and territory governments with the aim of minimizing harms caused by alcohol and others drugs. National Drug Strategy Committee (NDSC) established to lead policy development in conjunction with the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (MCDS). Methadone endorsed as an appropriate treatment intervention and first guidelines approved by the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference. First national household survey on drugs conducted: “Social issues in Australia, 1985.”

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 29 The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019: ACT, NSW, NT and Qld

Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland

2019 ACT Government gave the green light for a Alex Ross-King, 19, died at the FOMO music Select Committee on a Northern Territory Queensland AOD Treatment and Harm second pill testing trial in the ACT. It will be festival in Paramatta. This marked the firth Harm Reduction Strategy for Reducing Reduction Outcomes Framework released. held at the Groovin the Moo festival on 28 young person to die at a Sydney music Addictive Behaviours (the Committee), This is the first of its kind in Australia and April and be run by Pill Testing Australia festival in four months (Jan 12), inquiring into how best to prevent or seeks to support alcohol and other drugs (formerly STA-SAFE) and independently NSW Coroner announced an inquest would mitigate the harms that stem from addictive services to be able to monitor and improve evaluated by ANU. On announcing the be held into the five NSW festival deaths behaviours in the NT, released interim their outcomes. The framework was decision, the government stated: that occurred in 2018 and 2019 (Jan 15). report. This followed receipt of received 33 developed in recognition that measuring the “Governments have a responsibility to not public submissions and holding of public impact of AOD treatment and harm only try and prevent drug use but also to NSW Police commence pilot use of on-the- hearings in Darwin, Katherine, Tennant reduction in the lives of clients and support initiatives that reduce the harms spot fines ($400) instead of arrest for Creek and Alice Springs and a visit to see communities is essential to ensuring that associated with drug use. Pill testing does simple possession of drugs other than the Canadian cannabis legalization and organisational practice standards continue not make taking illicit drugs safe and our cannabis at music festivals. Threshold limits regulation. Key issues identified in the NT to improve. The THROF is intended for message to the community will always be, for this include 0.25g MDMA/Ecstasy in were: services to use as a guide to self-identify a capsule form; 0.75g MDMA/Ecstasy in any don’t take drugs. However, pill testing • High AOD related highs in the NT; range of client, organisational and system provides a health intervention at the point other form e.g. pill; and 1g cocaine or outcome indicators, which they consider when someone is making the decision to amphetamine (Jan 26). • Insufficient funding for treatment most relevant to their service model for take a pill. By making this service available New research released: “Trends and providers; implementation. The framework includes at music festivals there is the potential to offending circumstances in the police use • Unaddressed but underlying social universal outcomes, such as that a) all save lives” (Feb 18). of drug detection dogs in New South Wales.” disadvantage; clients should feel welcomed and respected The ACT Legislative Assembly referred the This analysed all criminal incidents involving • Need for expand alternatives to and b) that treatment types offered are Drugs of Dependence (Personal Use) police use of drug detection dogs between incarceration. congruent with assessment and client June 2008 and June 2018 and showed that preference and additional outcomes such as Amendment Bill 2018 to the Standing The Committee also noted many more in spite of increased police powers to target that clients report improvement in social, Committee on Health, Ageing and innovative approaches were being taken in supply: cultural or community support where Community Services with a requirement to other parts of the globe. It noted that based indicated (Mar). report back by 6 June 2019 (Feb). • Supply offences were detected in on the Committee’s initial review of the Findings of the Standing Committee on only 4.8% of all criminal incidents evidence, some of the core elements that Two people died (a 24 year old man and 22 Health, Ageing and Community Services (compared to 86.4% for will be considered when developing these year old women) at the Rabbits Eat Lettuce inquiry into the Drugs of Dependence use/possession). options include: music festival near Warwick in Queensland (Apr). (Personal Use) Amendment Bill 2018 • The most commonly detected drugs • Strengthening of harm reduction initiatives released. The committee was broadly were cannabis and MDMA/ecstasy. for Territorians who persist with drug use, Queensland Police seized 766kg MDMA in favourable of the change, but noted the The research showed that this was a acknowledging that not every user is willing Loganlea south of Brisbane – the largest limits of an own cultivation model: “There is consequence of where drug dogs were or able to abstain. NSPs and pill testing are MDMA seizure in Queensland and third a portion of the population who would use deployed, as dogs were mostly deployed in examples of initiatives that have a sound largest MDMA seizure in Australia. Two UK cannabis but do not necessarily want to, recreational or public settings, but when evidence base for reducing harms. citizens aged 51 and 40 and a 26-year-old have the facilities or the expertise to Qld man were arrested. An additional 200kg deployed at residential settings suppliers • Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act to cultivate their own cannabis plants.” “To of ice was seized in Auckland the week were detected in 52.5% occasions (Feb). allow for clearer and more uniform realise the intent of the Bill of legalising prior, as well as two men – a 60-year-old NSW Government announced new licensing decriminalisation, removing the individual use of cannabis it is important to man and 49-year-old man both from the UK scheme for festivals would only apply to 14 inconsistencies that currently exist in the provide options apart from individual, home (Aug). ‘high risk’ music festivals, defined as “those application of police discretion. Spain and based, cultivation.” Key recommendations: where a serious drug related illness or death the Netherlands have taken a similar step Four people died from suspected drug • That, subject to the following has occurred in the past three years or by allowing ‘cannabis clubs’98 to operate overdoses in Brisbane and six more were comments and amendments, the where the Independent Liquor & Gaming with impunity. hospitalized that are suspected to be GHB Drugs of Dependence (Personal Authority has determined, or where expert related. This follows a spate of fatal and Cannabis Use) Amendment Bill • Development of systems to improve advice from NSW Health and NSW Police non-fatal overdoses in Perth (Dec 13). 2018 be supported. coordination, avoid unnecessary duplication indicate that there may be a significant risk • That a cannabis drug driving test of services and ensure the most effective of serious drug related illness or death”. that determines impairment be distribution of resources, especially for Each will require a safety management plan, adopted. remote communities. designed to “deal with the evolving • That group cultivation (also known challenge of illegal drug use at their • More extensive involvement of Aboriginal as cannabis social clubs) be festivals’ and ‘to help ensure we don’t see a people and organisations in the design and permitted where the number of repeat of the five festival deaths in 2018.’ delivery of programs for Aboriginal Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 30 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland people in the group is between 2- The "high risk" were identified as Defqon.1 Territorians (Mar). 10 and the cannabis is cultivated FOMO, Days Like This and Laneway (Feb). On Wednesday 20 March 2019, the on the premises of one of the NSW Coroner delivered findings into a Legislative Assembly of the Northern members. cluster of opioid-related deaths in NSW and Territory dissolved the Select Committee on • That appropriate measures for recommended that the premier host a drug a Northern Territory harm Reduction overturning convictions relating to summit and consider decriminalization of Strategy for Addictive Behaviours (Mar). possession and cultivation of use and possession to reduce drug-related cannabis for personal use be harms (Mar). considered. • That strong public information The Federal Liberal National Government about the provisions of the Drugs announced investment of $3 million over of Dependence (Personal Cannabis two years to assist in the development of a Use) Amendment Bill 2018 proceed residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation or coincide with the implementation facility in Dubbo (Mar). of the Drugs of Dependence NSW Parliamentary Inquiry conduced into (Personal Cannabis Use) the impact and implementation of the Liquor Amendment Bill 2018. Amendment (Music Festivals) Regulation • That the ACT Government 2019 and the Gaming and Liquor intervene in any prosecution by the Administration Amendment (Music Festivals) Commonwealth of ACT residents Regulation 2019. Key findings: a) there had who cultivate or possess cannabis been insufficient consultation into both to defend the intent of the Bill regulations; b) the implementation of the (Jun). festival licensing scheme had caused On 25 September 2019, the Legislative uncertainty in the NSW music festival Assembly of the Australian Capital Territory industry; c) that the new regulations be (ACT), voted 10:7 to approve a law disallowed & d) that the NSW Government legalising personal cultivation, possession should establish a regulatory roundtable and use of cannabis for recreational with industry and other to consult on all purposes. The draft law had been introduced future matters (May-Aug). as a Private Member’s Bill in December Women who tested positive for cannabis 2018. The Background Note to the Act through roadside drug testing was let off on describes the objective as a “harm a ‘passive smoking defence’ after she minimisation approach”, acknowledging that claimed she had recently visited her “the outright prohibition model of drug terminally ill neighbor who had smoked policy is not working”. The Drugs of medical cannabis in her presence. This was Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Act deemed a landmark case as it was the first 2019 is scheduled to enter into force on 31 time passive smoking has been accepted as January 2020. It would exempt people over a defence (May). 18 years old from penalties for cultivation of NSW Coronial Inquest held by Magistrate up to two plants per person (maximum four Harriet Grahame, Deputy State Coroner, plants per household) kept in part of the into the deaths of six patrons at NSW music home not generally accessible by the public, festivals. Hearings were held 8-19 July, 10- and for possession of up to 50g of dried 13 Sep, and 19-20 Sep, and included cannabis herb or 150g of “fresh” cannabis. evidence from NSW Police, on-site medical This replaces, for adults only, the “simple teams, families, friends, researchers. It cannabis offence notice” (monetary fine) sparked intensive media coverage (July & currently issued to some people for self- Sep). administration, possession or cultivation of New research released by Michael Grewcock cannabis, but maintains existing youth and Vicki Sentas entitled “Rethinking strip therapeutic and non-therapeutic searching by NSW Police” which found strip diversionary schemes for cannabis use, searches were used 2774 times in the 12 possession and cultivation, including the months to 30 November 2006 compared to simple cannabis offence notice (SCON) 5,4835 in the 12 months to 30 June 2018, scheme (Sep). an almost 20 fold increase in less than 12 Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 31 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland New research released by Dr Olsen et al: years and that 91% of strip searches were “ACT pill testing trial 2019 – program for reasons of suspicion of possession of evaluation.” This was an independent drugs. They concluded that the definition of evaluation of the 2019 Groovin the Moo a strip search in NSW was too vague, that festival pill testing trial. Key findings: strip searches cause harm, that some strip • the ACT Pill Testing Trial was search practices go beyond the law and that implemented as planned & legal frameworks surrounding strip searches provided harm reduction in other states provide much clearer information to 234 patrons and it protections (Aug 22). identified seven substances Law Enforcement Conduct Commission held containing a potentially dangerous hearing into the police use of strip-search of substance, N-ethyl pentylone; young people at NSW music festivals. The • the service was well received by inquiry showed a 16 year old girl was strip- patrons and stakeholders. For searched at Splendor in the Grass after a example, most patrons rated the false drug detection dog indication, without clarity of the information provided a parent or guardian present – a breach of as good or very good and reported police procedures and that at the Lost City they would use the service again; music festival only 5 of 30 searches had • the service impacted positively on support people present (Oct & Dec). patron knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. For example, The NSW Special Commission of Inquiry into participants were more willing to the Drug ‘Ice’ report by lawyers use healthcare providers, brief recommends decriminalisation of drug use intervention providers/peer and/or expanding diversion (Oct). counsellors, home pill testing kits, NSW Coronial Inquest findings released. Key and written harm reduction findings: Nathan Tran, 18, Diana Nguyen, materials after attending the 21, Joseph Pham, 23, Callum Brosnan, 19, service and all those who had a Alexandra Ross-King, 19, and Joshua Tam, very dangerous substance detected 22, all died from MDMA toxicity or disposed of that drug in the complications of MDMA use at music amnesty bin; festivals between December 2017 and • the program produced valuable January 2019. But common contributing information about illicit drug factors included a) a significant police availability in Canberra, including presence including drug detection dogs at the identification of a substance each of the festivals, b) poly-drug use – previously unidentified in the ACT. particularly consumption of alcohol as well They thus recommended developing further as MDMA, c) a lack of knowledge about the pill testing services both in the ACT and potential dangers of MDMA, and d) heat. other parts of Australia (Dec). Key recommendations: The ACT Supreme Court Drug and Alcohol • Introduce pill testing – both front- Sentencing List (DASL) (formerly referred to of house services at festivals and a as the ACT Drug and Alcohol Court) permanent off-site drug checking commenced – a first for the territory. This facility; will involve up to 35 offenders during the • Expand peer-delivered harm trial period (Dec 3 until June 2021) (Dec 3). reduction and reduction services; • Remove drug detection dogs at festivals; • Limit the use of strip searches to circumstances where there is a reasonable suspicion of supply’; • Decriminalise personal drug use; • Hold a drug summit to develop evidence-based drug policy (7 Nov). NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 32 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland engaged in a high-profile campaign defending the use of strip-searches. In a front-page interview with Sydney’s Daily Telegraph he said young people should have “a little bit of fear” of police (Nov). A 24 year-old Melbourne man, died of a suspected drug overdose at the Strawberry Fields music festival near the Victorian border (Nov).

2018 Green light given for pill testing trial at Roadside drug testing expanded in NSW to Select Committee on a Northern Territory A new Queensland Drug and Alcohol Court Groovin Moo (Apr 26). include tests for cocaine (Jul 1). Harm Reduction Strategy for Reducing opened, filling a long-standing gap after the First Australian pill testing trial conducted at Joseph Pham (aged 23) and Diana Nguyen Addictive Behaviours (the Committee) was LNP and Premier Newman axed the Groovin Moo, University of Canberra by the (aged 21) died from drug-related overdoses established to investigate how best to Queensland drug courts in 2012. One key independent Safety Testing Advisory Service at defqon.1 festival in Penrith. 7 others were prevent or mitigate the harms that stem difference from the earlier drugs courts was at Festivals and Events (STA-SAFE) hospitalised (including 3 in intensive care) from addictive behaviours in the NT (May). that this is open to people dependent on consortium (Apr 29). during the festival (Sep 15). NT government announced it will introduce alcohol as well as illicit drugs (29 Jan). legislation allowing for the cultivation of Results from first Australian pill testing trial The NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, vowed Qld Government release new report: at Canberra's Groovin the Moo festival to “shut down” Defqon.1 after the suspected industrial hemp and will explore options around growing medical cannabis (May). “Changing attitudes, changing lives Options released. Found that than 80% of overdoses, and maintained opposition to pill to reduce stigma and discrimination for participants (70 out of the trial's 83 testing over concerns this would send a people experiencing problematic alcohol and participants) believed they had bought ‘green light’ (Sep 16). other drug use.” This outlined 18 options for MDMA, but only 42 of the 70 pills contained NSW Premier established a NSW Safety reform regarding systemic issues to address some MDMA, and 32 contained a high purity Festival panel, involving NSW Police stigma and discrimination for people MDMA. 42% participants said they would Commissioner, Mick Fuller APM, NSW Chief experiencing problematic alcohol and other modify their behaviour, 12% indicated they Medical Officer Dr Kerry Chant and Chair of drug use, and their families. This included: would use less drugs and 18% said they the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority A) Exploring options for the wouldn't use illicit drugs. The report Philip Crawford, to provide advice on: development of evidence-based concluded: “The pilot demonstrated that • Whether new offences or increased mass media campaigns to reduce such an intervention is possible and that penalties are required to stop drug stigma and discrimination people are willing to use the service, despite dealers endangering lives; experienced by people who use the limitations arising from the tight • How music festival promoters and alcohol and other drugs; timelines, inauspicious physical B) Exploring a range of strategies to infrastructure and the lack of dissemination operators can improve safety at their festivals; and enhance the engagement of strategies on site during the festival” (Jun). individuals and families with a lived Whether improved drug education ACT Labor backbencher Michael Pettersson • experience of problematic alcohol is required to address the increase bill proposed legalising cannabis for personal and other drug use in policy and in illegal drug use in our use, via removing cannabis possession of service planning community. less than 50g by an adult as an offence and C) Initiating discussions about the Any consideration of the merits of pill allowing people legally have four cannabis risks and benefits of testing was outside the terms of reference plants (Sep). decriminalisation for personal use (Sep 18). and/or possession of illicit drugs; ACT Drug Strategy Action Plan 2018-2021 D) Introducing processes that require released, with 43 actions. Key actions: Fair Treatment – Long walk to treatment an assessment of potentially • To explore opportunities to expand launched led by Uniting Church Synod of discriminatory provisions as part of on pill testing at events in the ACT; NSW and ACT. This campaign involve a walk law reform and legislative review • To investigate the feasibility, need, with a baton from Dubbo to NSW Parliament projects; effectiveness and appropriateness in the aim of highlighting the large gaps in E) Health care and social services, of establishing a medically treatment for people in rural/regional areas. across a range of settings, work to supervised injecting facility in the The walk commenced Oct 15 and ended Nov ensure that a welcoming ACT. 2 and involved 500,000 steps – the travel environment that respects the Other actions included: distance it would take a person in regional dignity and worth of all clients. • To improve access to sterile NSW to reach drug treatment (Oct-Nov). The report was informed by independent injecting equipment and disposal; research undertaken by the Drug Policy • To expand access to hepatitis and NSW Safety Festival Committee report Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 33 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland HIV education and prevention; released. This noted music festivals Modelling Program as well as the views of • To implement a real-time contribute to local economies and are highly people with a lived experience of prescription monitoring remote valued by the community, but that current problematic alcohol and other drug use, access portal by March 2019; regulatory approaches are ad hoc and their families and friends; Queensland • To expand drug diversion; & inconsistent. It also noted the need to government agencies; non-government • To introduce a drug and alcohol increase targeted harm reduction at such organisations; and consultation with the court (Dec). settings and how policing itself can be a Queensland Mental Health and Drug risk: with some festival attendees hurriedly Advisory Council. (Mar). consuming drugs to avoid police detection. Key recommendations: • Introduce a new category of liquor licence specific to music festivals; • Require organisers to develop and adhere to a Safety Management Plan for their event, supported by a two-tiered system of risk, with variable regulatory conditions, similar to liquor licence planning; • Strengthen drug and alcohol harm reduction for festival goers; • Develop best practice guidelines for event organisers on harm reduction approaches and messages; • Trial the use of Criminal Infringement Notices (on-the-spot fines) instead of Court Attendance Notices for drug possession offences at or in the vicinity of music festivals, so that people detected for drug possession have the option to pay the fine and thereby avoid court and a criminal conviction; & • Creation of a new offence that means people who are dealing drugs for profit at festivals will be held responsible for any deaths they cause (Oct 24). NSW Special Commission of Inquiry established into the Drug Ice – chaired by Dan Howard. Rapidly expanded to look at the use of other ATS including MDMA (Nov). Community Protection Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 adopted. Amended the Crimes Act 1900 to insert a new offence at section 25C of supply of drugs (other than plants) causing death. A person will be guilty of the new offence if: • The person supplies a prohibited drug to another person for financial or material gain (not social supply between friends); • The drug is self-administered by another person (whether or not the Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 34 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland person to whom the drug was supplied); and • The self-administration of the drug causes or substantially causes the death of that other person. Maximum penalty: 20 years imprisonment.

Safeguards on the offence are that proceedings for the offence may only be instituted by or with the approval of the Director of Public Prosecutions and it will be necessary for the prosecution to prove that the accused knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that supplying the prohibited drug would expose another person to a significant risk of death as a result of the self-administration of the drug (Nov 21).

Callum Brosnan (aged 19) died from a suspected drug overdose and 13 people were hospitalised (three in a critical condition) post the Knockout Games of Destiny Dancy Party at Homebush (Dec 8).

NSW Ministry of Health released new “Guidelines for Music Festival Organisers: Music Festival Harm Reduction” to support event organisers to deliver safer music festivals. A set of interim guidelines were published in December 2018 to ensure advice was available during the peak summer festival period. The interim guidelines were subsequently revised and updated in consultation with music festival organisers, onsite medical providers, venue managers, peer-based harm reduction services, NSW Ambulance and experts. The guidelines combined existing event planning guidance with harm reduction strategies and covered topics such as emergency vehicle access, sanitation, water provision, cooling measures and sun safety, chill out spaces, and prevention and management of sexual assault (Dec).

2017 ACT government gave STA-SAFE permission to test drugs at the Spilt Milk festival at Canberra's Commonwealth Park as a harm reduction measure. The ACT Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris said the ACT Government had carefully pill testing schemes in countries like New Zealand and Canada, and that the evidence showed there was no evidence that pill testing increased illicit drug use and instead Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 35 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland that pill testing had numerous harm reduction benefits: “Young people would be informed about what’s really in the their pills and how potent they are, and it creates an opportunity to remind them of the risks before they make the final decision to take a drug” (Sep 22). ACT pill testing trial shelved. This was first attributed to purported problems with paperwork, but later to Commonwealth intervention by Canberra Liberal Jeremy Hanson on the basis of the festival occurring on Commonwealth land. 2016 Minister for Health Simon Corbell announced NSW Police Minister Troy Grant said that Roadside drug-driving testing commenced in Queensland Health released a discussion the ACT Government would provide $6m in music festivals could be shut down if in the Northern Territory. Under the new paper: “Medicinal cannabis in Queensland: additional funding over four years to organisers failed to improve safety after testing, people who record a positive Draft Public Health (Medicinal strengthen drug treatment capacity. Key recent drug overdoses (Jan). reading for driving under the influence of a Cannabis) Bill 2016 - Discussion paper.” areas included: President of the Australian Drug Law Reform drug on a first offence will receive a This noted that the Qld proposed laws on • $690,000 annually for additional Foundation, Alex Wodak and emergency maximum penalty of 3 months medical cannabis had taken these into treatment capacity through Directions medical specialist David Caldicott pledged to imprisonment and/or a fine of $400 which consideration medical cannabis ACT, Toora Women Inc, Karralika start a privately funded pill testing trial at will escalate for subsequent offences (Feb). developments in other jurisdictions (Cth, Programs Inc, Ted Noffs Foundation, music festivals in NSW. They said the trial NT Government response to Breaking the NSW and Vic) in drafting the Bill (Mar). The Salvation Army and Gugan Gulwan would start with or without the blessing of Ice report released: “Tackling Ice in the Youth Aboriginal Corporation; the government (Feb). Northern Territory.” Key actions included The Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Act • $375,000 annually to increase the Reduce supply via: 2016 adopted. The act will commence on 1 capacity of drug rehabilitation Minister for Justice Troy Grant joined March 2017.The act creates a new • Strengthening the Misuse of Drugs Act programs; and Minister for Mental Health Pru Goward regulatory framework to allow medicinal to enhance search and seizure powers • $115,000 annually to roll-out the hosted a round-table about drug courts cannabis products to be prescribed and on drug trafficking routes naloxone program (May). (Feb). dispensed to patients in Queensland. • Monitor sales of chemicals and Justice and Community Safety Legislation NSW Police and NSW Premier Mike Baird Specifically it provides 2 pathways for slammed proposed pill testing trials in NSW equipment to make it harder for people doctors to be authorised to prescribe Amendment Act 2016 adopted which to manufacture ice decriminalised peer distribution of sterile as “ridiculous” and “illegal”: 'We are not medicinal cannabis: injecting equipment in the Australian Capital going to be condoning in any way what • Taskforce NEMESIS – screening of • Patient-class prescribers: specialists Territory. The Act added an exemption to illegal drug dealers are doing,' (Feb). major passenger flights and all drug who have an "as-of-right authority" to the offence of supplying sterile injecting NSW Greens MP Jenny Leong reintroduced routes into the NT – targeting of known prescribe to groups of patients for a equipment in section 74 of the Medicines, the Law Enforcement (Powers and drug suppliers/ importers into the NT specified condition or symptom with Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 2008 Responsibilities) Amendment (Sniffer Dogs— Reduce harm via: specified medicinal cannabis products (MPTG Act). The exemption is intended to Repeal of Powers) Bill 2016, arguing that • Trial the HOPE (Hawaii’s Opportunity • Single-patient prescribers: specialists or support the implementation of a peer “the evidence is in and it is clear that this Probation with Enforcement) strategy, general practitioners can apply for distribution program of sterile injecting program, first introduced under the former which applies swift sanctions for approval to prescribe for a particular equipment for the purpose of preventing the Labor Government and continued and unlawful drug use, to increase patient. spread of blood-borne disease (Jun). expanded under this Liberal Coalition offenders’ ability and motivation to Medicinal cannabis will only be approved if: participate in behavioural change • the patient has tried all of the ACT government announced that it would Government, is a failure”, and that the continued use of drug detection dogs is an processes conventional treatments available and establish a medical cannabis scheme as a these have failed OR "priority" and "as soon as practicable" infringement of basic civil liberties. (Bill • Investigate a trial of needle and syringe lapsed in Aug 2016) (Mar). vending machines • the conventional treatment causes (Aug). intolerable side effects; AND The Premier announced that the Terminal Develop an online toolkit to support • • the doctor provides clinical evidence Illness Cannabis Scheme would be renamed families and communities to better that a specific type of medicinal the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use understand and address the problems cannabis product is effective for the Scheme, and that the scheme was being caused by ice particular condition or symptoms (Oct). reviewed to consider whether it should be Improving the evidence base extended to non-terminal patients (May). • By June 2016, implement an NT Alcohol BOCSAR data showed considerable regional and Other Drug research and evaluation variation in drug driving offences across strategy (Feb). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 36 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland

NSW, with areas of highest detections being Justice Legislation Amendment (Drug Richmond-Tweed, Tamworth, Wagga Offences) Act 2016 adopted. Key changes: Wagga, Orange, Newcastle and parts of • New offences added of displaying Western Sydney (Jun). or supplying a cocaine kit, water First medical cannabis treatments were pipe or ice pipe. provided to NSW children with severe • Created an aggravated penalty for treatment-resistant epilepsy: using the manufacture or cultivation of a Epidiolex® - a GW Pharmaceuticals dangerous drug in the presence of formulation of pure cannabidiol (CBD). 40 a child. children are expected to take part as part of the compassionate access scheme (Jun). • Created an aggravated penalty for the procurement of a child to The Hon Niall Blair MLC, Minister for Primary commit a drug offence, with a Industries, and the Hon Pru Goward MP, maximum penalty of life Minister for Medical Research, announced imprisonment, irrespective of the that NSW has become the first Australian maximum penalty of any particular state authorised by the Commonwealth offence category. Government to conduct medicinal cannabis • Introduction of the requirement cultivation research. The cultivation that offenders found guilty of research will be conducted in a new, state- serious drug offences including, of-the-art, high security facility (Jul). commercial supply, manufacturing NSW Health statutory review of the and cultivation in the presence of a Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in child serve a minimum 70 per cent Kings Cross (MSIC) received submissions to of their sentence in prison. increase number of supervised injecting • Add a provision making the centres in NSW and to allow pregnant possession of a firearm, women and 16-year-olds to use them. Key ammunition or weapons as an rationales were: aggravating factor • “Individuals under 18 are excluded from the part of the MSIC that is used for • Increase penalty units for a number injecting.” of offences including increasing the • “It is likely that by continuing to penalties for supplying a Schedule exclude those under 18 from using the 2 dangerous drug (new section 5A) centre, they will inject somewhere else, from 85 penalty units to 500 in less safe circumstances. penalty units (May). • “Excluding pregnant women from any treatment facility, including the injecting room, does not prevent exposure of the foetus to drugs or alcohol.” • “There have been 25 instances in the last six years where staff at the centre have denied entry to a woman on the basis of pregnancy. It is possible that in turning a pregnant woman away, the foetus may be at risk of unmanaged withdrawal from drug dependency which may cause greater harm” (Jul). NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant attacked the proposal to allow pregnant women and 16-year-olds to access the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, arguing it was a “ridiculous” and “offensive” suggestion that was tantamount to “touting for business to meet benchmarks and making Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 37 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland pregnant women and children the target." He further noted: “not in our lifetime will we ever allow kids to utilise the heroin-injecting centre or pregnant women. It's just absolute nonsense” (Aug). MSIC Director Marianne Jauncey hit back at NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant calling his comments about ‘touting for business’ offensive and noting that calls to expand access to pregnant women and youth were broadly supported by medical and AOD specialists including the Royal Australasian College of Physician and National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (Aug). NSW Cross-Party Harm Minimisation Roundtable held, co-hosted by Mehreen Faruqi (Greens), Alex Greenwich (Independent), Jo Haylen (Labor) and Shayne Mallard (Liberal). The roundtable brought together politicians, health professionals, academics, police and drug users, in the aim of renewing the debate about harm minimization in NSW. Key issues discussed included drug checking services, expanded access to the Kings Cross supervised injecting facility, and the decriminalisation of drug possession and use. The group signed a letter to Premier Mike Baird and opposition leader Luke Foley calling for a state wide parliamentary summit on illicit drug use (Aug 11). Regulatory changes in NSW allowed doctors to apply to prescribe a broad range of cannabis-based medicines for people who have exhausted standard treatment options. Applications will be assessed by the Commonwealth TGA & by a committee of medical experts on behalf of NSW Health (Aug). BOCSAR report, “trends in conditional discharges”, shows that between 2004 and 2015 there was a large increase in the use of section 10s (bond without a conviction) by NSW local courts, for offences including drug use and possession and drug manufacture/cultivate (Sep).

2015 Crimes Legislation Amendment Bill 2014, NSW Leader of the opposition elected by NT Ice Select Committee established. Terms Two men died after reportedly smoking Part 6.4A passed to prohibit the display for NSW Labor: Luke Foley (Jan 5). of reference included examining: synthetic cannabis in Mackay. The Mackay sale (but not the sale) of 'drug pipes' in the NSW Opposition leader declares no need for • The reliability of government data on emergency department reported this ACT (Feb). a medical cannabis trial – should go straight Ice use; followed a rise in ED admissions: an average Minister for Justice, Shane Rattenbury to prescribing medical cannabis (Jan). • A comprehensive survey of the various of one admission per day for synthetic drugs announced the Government had signed a government responses to the abuse of in the last six months (Jan). Labor declared the “war on ice” one of its Ice in the Northern Territory; Deed of Agreement with the Community and top priorities and promised it would have an Qld Crime and Corruption Commission Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 38 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Public Sector Union (CPSU) regarding a ice summit if re-elected (Jan). • Government and community responses released a new report: “New Synthetic proposed Needle and Syringe Program 19-year-old Tolga Toksoz died of a to Ice use in other states and some Drugs - Deceptive and Dangerous.” Report (NSP) for the Alexander Maconochie Centre suspected overdose and five others were assessment of the effectiveness of warned of the expansion of the synthetic (AMC). It set out a process for engaging hospitalised at Sydney Festival 'A State of these responses in terms of prevention, drug market in regional communities in Qld staff in the development of an NSP model, Trance' (Feb). education, family and individual support (likely due to the shortage of traditional including a joint working group to develop a and treatment modalities; & illicit drugs), and the increased involvement model, a staff ballot process to determine Medical cannabis campaigner Dan Haslam • The sources of Ice including cross of organised crime groups in distributing support for any proposed model and a passed away (Feb). border trafficking, local manufacture them (Jan). commitment not to implement a model that Assistant Minister for Health Pru Goward and derivation from legal Change of government with Qld Labor is unable to gain majority support from announced a series of community education pharmaceuticals and other legal Government elected under Premier voting staff (Apr). forums ‘breaking the ice in our communities’ precursors (Apr). Annastacia Palaszczuk with the assistance of delivered by the Australian Drug Foundation Ice Select Committee, Breaking the Ice, an Independent. Key platforms included: to support local communities dealing with report released. Key conclusions: • To reinstate the operation of drug methamphetamine (Feb). • That while 'ice' is an emerging issue of courts for dealing with drug misuse and NSW Greens MP Jenny Leong introduced the concern, reports of an 'ice' epidemic minor related offences Amendment (Sniffer Dogs—Repeal of sweeping across the Northern Territory • To establish a separately funded state- Powers) Bill 2015 that sought to end the use are misleading. wide Health Promotion Service to of drug detection dogs without a warrant in promote health and wellbeing, • While prevalent in the urban and NSW. (This lapsed in Nov 2015) (May). expanding the range of early detection regional centres of the Territory, there and early intervention services; Mr Barry and Mrs Joy Lambert made a is no evidence of widespread ‘ice’ use in To commence a Commission of Inquiry donation of $33.7 million to the University of remote communities. • into organised crime Sydney to establish the Lambert Initiative, • That the abuse of alcohol remains a far to explore the potential of the cannabis greater problem in the Territory, and • To re-establish the Queensland plant in treating a range of diseases (Jun). that strategies to address ‘ice’ should Sentencing Advisory Council (Feb). NSW Centre for Medicinal Cannabis not be implemented at the expense of 20 people non-fatally overdosed at the Research and Innovation (the Centre) was alcohol-related harm initiatives. Brisbane leg of the Stereosonic music launched, funded with $12 million by the 13 recommendations were issued including festival, and were taken to Brisbane NSW Government: to develop understanding that the NT Government should: emergency departments. Queensland police of the benefits and treatment options for • Ban the display and sale of drug reported being staggered at the numbers of medicinal cannabis. Inaugural director: NSW paraphernalia; overdoses. The overdoses followed two fatal Chief Scientist & Engineer, Professor Mary • Mandate real-time online recording of overdoses at Stereosonic in Sydney and O’Kane (Jun). pseudoephedrine sales at pharmacies to Adelaide (Dec). NSW children with severe treatment- aid data collection; resistant epilepsy will be provided with • Put more money into residential and compassionate access to a cannabis-based non-residential detox services, with an medicine (Jul). emphasis on services for people aged Regulatory changes in NSW allow doctors to under 18, and access to prisoners; apply for prescriptions of a broader range of • Undertake a trial of waste water cannabis-based medicines. Applications analysis to more accurately assess from prescribing doctors will be assessed by prevalence and distribution of ice use. the Commonwealth Therapeutic Goods • Undertake and publish a comprehensive Administration, and by a committee of review and evaluation of drug medical experts on behalf of NSW Health diversionary programs in the NT, and (Aug). develop a strategy to enhance access to Nigel Pauljevic (aged 26) died from a in the Northern Territory (Nov). suspected drug overdose at the defqon.1 Traffic and other Legislation Amendment Act music festival in Penrith and 8 others were 2015 adopted enabling powers to conduct hospitalised (Sep). random drug testing to drivers on Northern NSW Government signed a Memorandum of Territory roads: for cannabis, ecstasy and Understanding with GW Pharmaceuticals to methamphetamines. On introducing the bill facilitate access to Epidiolex® (a it was noted that “this amendment will bring pharameutical preparation of CBD) for a trial the Northern Territory up to date with other jurisdictions. All other jurisdictions… have Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 39 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland with children with paediatric epilepsy (Oct). successfully implemented random roadside Sylvia Choi (aged 25) died at the drug testing regimes similar to that which is Stereosonic music festival in Olympic Park proposed in this bill. Research shows that after taking what police claimed mixed these regimes are having a positive impact ecstasy with another substance, possibly on road safety, with one Victorian study MDMA in water. Another 120 people were finding that the current rates of random treated for drug-related symptoms (Nov). testing are saving 20 lives per year and reducing total driving fatalities by up to NSW Health launched an interactive map of 15%” (Dec). every public NSP outlet across NSW, type of facility e.g. staffed NSPs, vending machines (free or coin operated), disposal bins and hours of operation and range of equipment available (Dec).

2014 Interim evaluation of the ACT’s naloxone The New South Wales Government NT Corrections Officers report that a ban on Queensland Police launch a “New Synthetic program showed that the program had been supported all of the General Purpose smoking in NT prisons has led to a shift to Drugs: Real Damage" campaign, asking a success. For example, it found participants Standing Committee No.2’s Inquiry into smuggling tobacco into the prisons, rather Queensland residents to anonymously report were able to be trained to administer take- Drug and Alcohol Treatment than cannabis or methamphetamine (Jan). dealers or people in possession of new home naloxone in appropriate circumstances recommendation. In particular noted the The Northern Territory Government passed synthetic drugs (Feb). and that there had been 23 successful government would: the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Act 2014 Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other overdose reversals (Feb). • closely observe the results of the on 20 March 2014. This Act allows for police Legislation Amendment Act 2014 adopted. ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher praised naloxone trials in NSW (due for to charge a person not only with “supply to Introduced new laws against “out of control” the ACT naloxone program (Feb). completion in July 2014) and the ACT to a person” but for the aggravated events, defined as an event involving 12 or determine if naloxone should be circumstance of “supplying to a place that more persons are gathered together at a Attorney-General Simon Corbell announced expanded in Sydney; & key changes to the ACT drug trafficking laws was at the time of the offending an place and 3 or more persons associated with • encourage NHMRC to prioritise funding ‘indigenous community’” when it involves a the event engage in out-of-control conduct via the Criminal Code (Controlled Drugs) research into naltrexone implants, and Legislation Amendment Regulation 2014. schedule 2 drug e.g. cannabis or at or near the event. Maximum penalties for if necessary seek private funds for a amphetamine. An averment attesting that a organising or causing an out of control event Included first evidence-informed reforms to limited local trial (Feb). ACT drug trafficking thresholds: place is an ‘indigenous community’ at the include 1 year imprisonment and/or 110 • changing the trafficable quantities of BoCSAR report release: “Why is the NSW relevant time is deemed to be evidence of penalty units (Feb). four common drugs that trigger prison population growing?” Examined the that matter stated. The Act increases the Queensland Police concluded the Gold ‘deemed supply’ provisions; cause of a large increase in imprisonment maximum penalty for such actions, from 5 Coast's biggest drug operation in history: • switching from a pure based to a mixed from late 2012 to early 2014 and concluded to 9 years imprisonment (Mar). Operation Kilo Fraction, a 19 month based regime for assessing drug that the key causes were firstly, an increase operation. Led to arrest of 152 people, weight; and in the rate of arrest for crimes involving including 37 alleged members of outlaw • adopting a uniform multiplier between aggravated sexual assault, serious assault motorcycle gangs (Apr). trafficable, commercial & large resulting in injury, aggravated robbery, drive while licence disqualified or suspended Queensland Department of Health conducts commercial quantities. a “Request for Offer” (RFO) for the provision The reforms followed advice from the Drug and deal/traffic in non-commercial quantities, and secondly an increase in the of NGO out-client AOD services for July Policy Modelling Program and were heralded 2014 to June 2017 including NGO provided as better ensuring thresholds target drug proportion of offenders sentenced to prison, particularly for offences involving Queensland Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative traffickers, rather than drug users, as sessions, the coordination of booking ‘consistent with a harm minimisation importation of illicit drugs and aggravated sexual assault. It noted that this was likely arrangements for these sessions, NGO approach.’ The regulation also added 44 Youth AOD out-client counselling and NGO new psychoactive substances to schedule 1, to reflect a change in policing and/or sentencing, rather than any change in the Community AOD out-client counselling. This making possession of each subject to RFO did not include any currently rate of actual offending (Apr). serious criminal offences. New laws Government operated services and there commenced 17 April 2014 (Mar). The Haslam family from Tamworth launched was no increase or decrease in funds ACT Greens MP, Mr Shane Rattenbury, an online petition to the NSW Premier and allocated. Current providers of residential released a medical cannabis discussion NSW Health Minister calling for the rehabilitation services funded by Queensland paper and exposure draft law for community decriminalization of medicinal cannabis in Department of Health were excluded from feedback: “Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis NSW. The campaign was motivated to help the RFO and have been directly procured Use for Medical Purposes) Amendment Bill their terminally ill son, Daniel Haslam, who (Apr). was diagnosed with bowel cancer and found 2014”. The bill seeks to enable a person to Qld Gov released Safe Night Out Strategy. Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 40 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland apply in writing to the Chief Health Officer benefits from using cannabis (Apr). Included actions to: for approval to possess, use and cultivate NSW Nationals MP Kevin Anderson, member • Introduce tougher penalties for those cannabis for medical purposes. The for Tamworth, announced his intention to who are affected by alcohol or drugs community consultation ran from July until introduce a Private Members Bill to approve and engage in anti-social and violent September (Jul). the use of cannabis by terminally ill behaviour in and around licensed A medical marijuana supplier, providing patients (May). venues and in public and • Expand police powers e.g. for drug medical marijuana to a 2.5 year old girl with The NSW Parliamentary Research Service a genetic disorder, was raided after a tip off operations involving tactical covert and issued an issues backgrounder on “Medical overt strategies and drug detection from Chief Minister Katy Gallagher. The cannabis” (Jun). Chief Minister stated: ''As the law stands at dogs; and mandatory drug and alcohol the moment marijuana is a prohibited Law Enforcement (Powers and testing for people charged with serious substance and I have responsibilities on me Responsibilities) Amendment Act 2014 offences and trial of “sober safe centre” as Chief Minister under child protection laws, adopted. Introduced a number of reforms, in Brisbane operated by Police if nothing else, that that information had to including a requirement to collect data on • Mandatory AOD Counselling session as be passed on” (Jul). the use of drug detection dogs and a review part of bail conditions for anyone of police guidelines for searching and charged with violence offences while The ACT Legislative Assembly referred the detaining a person during drug dog intoxicated Greens Exposure Draft of the Drugs of operations (Jun). • Safe Night Out Strategy required some Dependence (Cannabis Use for Medical NSW Premier Mike Baird met the Haslam legislative amendments that have been Purposes) Amendment Bill 2014 and related introduced to Parliament as the Safe discussion paper to the Standing Committee family, announcing he was touched by the plight of Daniel Haslam, and was Night Out Legislation Amendment Bill on Health, Ageing, Community and Social (Jun). Services for its consideration. The ‘sympathetic’ to decriminalizing medical Committee is required to report back to the cannabis but wanted issues of supply to be Safe Night Out Legislation Amendment Bill Assembly by the last sitting day in June dealt with (Jul). adopted as part of the Safe Night Out 2015 (7 Aug). Final phase of the Intensive Drug and Strategy including a new offence of ‘Unlawful striking causing death’ punishable Chief Minister Katy Gallagher wrote to Alcohol Treatment Program (IDATP) opened in NSW prisons with a new 48-bed facility by a maximum penalty of life imprisonment federal Health Minister Peter Dutton i, with the offender required to serve 80% of proposing the National Health and Medical specifically for female inmates. This offered drug treatment and education, vocation and sentence before applying for parole. The Research Council support an Australia-wide legislation also included a change to clinical trial and the Therapeutic Goods employment programs for female inmates with a documented history of drug and/or sentencing rules to no longer allow being Administration consider how medical intoxicated as a reason to reduce a person’s cannabis could be licensed for use (Aug). alcohol abuse and at least 12 months before their release (Aug). sentence. A change to the bail act that Attorney-General Simon Corbell launched a made it mandatory for all people charged NSW Premier announced that a clinical trial new report: “Evaluation of the ACT drug with grievous bodily harm, common assault, for medical cannabis would be established & diversion programs” led by the Drug Policy affray or assault police must complete a that a Working Group had been formed to Modelling Program and announced a series “Drug and Alcohol Assessment and Referral set up the trial: due to report back by the of reforms to the ACT police and court Course” while on bail. The legislation also end of 2014 (Sep 16). diversion system, including broadening the allowed for a trial of “Sober Safe Centres” methods for payment of SCONs, prioritising Changes to the NSW Bail Act (Bail where a person who is deemed by Police to space for AOD assessments of offenders in Amendment Bill 2014) mean that alleged be intoxicated and at risk of harming the courts and the development of a new offenders, including anyone charged with themselves or others or causing a public ACT Police and Court Drug Diversion the manufacture or supply of commercial nuisance, they can be detained at a Sober Strategy. The Attorney General Simon quantities of a prohibited drug, will be Safe Centre for up to 8 hours. Also included Corbell and ACT Chief Police Officer Rudi refused bail, unless they ‘show cause’ as to in this bill was the change of classification Lammers both also reinforced the why they should be released (Sep). for Steroids to be a “dangerous drug” thus importance of drug diversion programs and NSW Premier opened inaugural medical increasing penalty for possession, trafficking ensuring they were effectively targeted cannabis symposium in Tamworth (Nov). and production. The Bill was passed in (Oct). August 2014 with all activities operational 19-year-old woman, Georgina Bartter, died by the end of December. Chief Minister Katy Gallagher made a of a suspected ecstasy overdose, at request for the ACT to be involved in the Harbourlife dance music festival (Nov). Queensland Government releases finalised NSW clinical trial of medical cannabis (Oct). Queensland Plan including a goal that New report released: “Responding to alcohol Queenslanders “will be physically and and drug related harms in NSW: Mapping mentally healthy” with success being “We the NSW non-government alcohol and other Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 41 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland drugs sector.” The report was commissioned have reduced rates of lifestyle diseases by NADA and NSW Ministry of Health, as a caused by lack of exercise, poor diet, prelude to the Partnerships for Health NGO alcohol, smoking and drug abuse” (Aug). reform program. Key findings: Queensland Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol • 50% of organisations indicated their Strategic Plan 2014-2019 released. Key operating budget was $1M or less; objectives include: • Funding models were complex: with • Reduced stigma and discrimination; most having multiple funders; • Reduced avoidable harm; & • Clients were becoming more complex; • That people living with mental health • Funding bodies were expecting more difficulties or issues related to from organisations, e.g. performance substance use have 1) lives with reporting & accreditation; & purpose, 2) better physical and oral • Some organisations had narrowed their health and live longer and 3) positive client entry criteria to clients with less experiences of their support, care and complex need because they could not treatment (Sep). afford salary levels of skilled staff. Recommendations included: A joint taskforce between Queensland Police • Funds provided at levels adequate to and Queensland Corrections leads to arrest cover the real costs of service of 19 people alleged to be involved in provision; & trafficking drugs into and outside • Compliance requirements that will Queensland prisons (Oct). support efficient, quality, evidence- A two-year joint investigation between the based services (Nov). Queensland Crime and Corruption Evaluation of the Overdose Prevention & Commission and Qld Police Service into drug Emergency Naloxone (OPEN) Project, that trafficking and outlaw motorcycle gangs operated through the Kirketon Road Centre closed following the arrest of 62 people, for and Langton Centre released. Showed that 430 offences, and seizure of an estimated between July 2012 and March 2014, 83 $2.9 million of drugs, predominantly people at risk of opioid overdose attended methamphetamine (Dec). the training and were provided take home naloxone. Interviews with 35 participants six months post training showed: • All but one of the participants felt they had learned new things and were more confident responding to an overdose situation immediately post training. Participants also felt more informed (24% increasing to 95%) and more confident to inject naloxone (51% increasing to 96%). • At least 30 opioid overdose reversals were reported by 18 of the 35 participants who provided follow-up interviews. There were no deaths reported in any of the reversed overdoses (Nov). NSW Greens MP David Shoebridge launches a “sniff off: no more drug dogs” campaign, aimed at ending the use of drug detection dogs without a warrant in public spaces in NSW. The campaign included a facebook site that reports the whereabouts of drug detection dogs in NSW (Nov). NSW Premier announced three Government- Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 42 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland funded trials of medical cannabis and cannabis products to explore the role of cannabis and cannabis products in providing relief for patients with a range of debilitating or terminal illnesses (including severe paediatric epilsepsy, chemotherapy induces nausea and vomiting). The trials are expected to commence in 2016. Also released was: • Guidelines for medical practitioners • A Terminal Illness Cannabis Scheme to enable NSW Police to show discretion to not enforce the law against registered adults and carers (Dec). 2013 Second phase of ACT naloxone program New South Wales State Attorney-General The Northern Territory Government The Newman Government released their six commenced. Included provision of naloxone Greg Smith opened the state's third drug announced that it was getting hard on drugs month action plan. Actions included: to at-risk detainees on release by Justice court, in central Sydney (Feb). in response to research that there has been • Establishment of the Queensland Mental Health (Feb). Nineteen individuals, including the national significant increase in the manufacture and Health Commission; Drug Policies and Services Framework for president of the Hells Angels, the vice distribution of methamphetamine across the • Reform Queensland Health’s grants and the Alexander Maconochie Centre 2013 – president of the Rebels and other high- nation. The Misuse of Drugs Amendment service delivery contracts; 2015 adopted. Employed demand, harm and ranking members of the Comancheros (Methamphetamine) Act 2013 was • Commence a review to streamline supply reduction strategies and performance motorcycle gang were arrested following a introduced and received assent on 19 contracts with nongovernment measures including number of detainees 21-month investigation into the supply of October 2013. The Act subsequently organisations (NGOs) reducing the accessing of ATOD services, number of drugs, guns and explosives to organised commenced to have effect from 11 number of individual contracts; overdoses and needle-stick injuries, inmate crime groups within NSW. The operation, November 2013. This amendment removed • Release the government’s youth satisfaction with ATOD services and known as Strike Force Alistair, was led by methamphetamine from schedule 2 of the strategy (Jan). proportion of detainees receiving a Justice the NSW Police Force Organised Crime Act and placed it in schedule 1. This Newman Government released Blueprint for Health discharge plan on release (Aug). Squad and the NSW Crime Commission, increased penalties for the possession or better healthcare in Queensland (Feb). supply of trafficable and commercial ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher released with assistance from the Gangs Squad and Qld Police closed their most extensive drug is one of the biggest operations in the quantities of the drug. For example the final status report on the Government’s maximum penalty for trafficable quantities investigation in recent years. Operations response to the Burnet Report. Noted that state’s history. Also seized were pistols, Juliet Cheshire and Juliet Cheshire 2 riffles, ammunition, counterfeit cash, 2 (2.0g or more) increased from 5 years 46 recommendations from Burnet report imprisonment to 14 years or more spanned a total of 18 months and sought to had been fully or partially completed at the clandestine laboratories and an estimated disrupt trafficking of methylamphetamine, $6 million worth of drugs (Mar). (dependent on the nature of the offence) Alexander Maconochie Centre, but that: (Oct). MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, and cannabis into • a trial needle and syringe program Intoxicated Persons (Sobering Up Centres the Fortitude Valley entertainment precinct. could not occur until union agreement Trial) Act 2013 No 15 adopted. Introduced a A total of 76 people were charged with 283 was reached; & trial of sobering up centres for people offences including 32 offences of trafficking • the merit and feasibility of providing a intoxicated due to alcohol or drugs. Included dangerous drugs, 105 charges of supply regulated tattooing program was still 1) a compulsory model run by NSW police dangerous drugs and 16 charges of major being considered (Oct). that detains people for 4-8 hours at costs; possession. Approximately $2.5 million Final Strategic Framework for the and 2) a voluntary model run by NGOs (Apr worth of drugs and several firearms were Management of Blood-Borne viruses in the 3). also seized (Feb). Alexander Maconochie Centre adopted. NSW Parliament General Purpose Standing Drugs Misuse Amendment Regulation (No 1) Included provision of regulated access to Committee No. 4 released report on their 2013 adopted. Added 35 new synthetic sterile injecting equipment subject to union inquiry into the use of cannabis for medical drugs, including NBOMe, MDPV, 4-MEC, agreement (Oct). purposes. Key recommendations: MDAI & 2-DPMP, to Schedule 2 of the Drug • That the Minister for Health write to the Misuse Act (Apr). Commonwealth Minister for Health and Criminal Proceeds Confiscation (Unexplained Ageing, expressing in principal support Wealth and Serious Drug Offender for the expansion of access to approved Confiscation Order) Amendment Act 2013 cannabis pharmacotherapies adopted. This: • That the NSW Government introduce an • introduced a scheme for recovering amendment to the Drug Misuse and ‘unexplained wealth’; Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 43 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Trafficking Act 1985 to add a complete • provide a reverse onus of proof, so any defence to the use and possession of person who accumulated wealth that cannabis, so as to cover the authorised does not seem commensurate with medical use of cannabis by patients his/her lifestyle and livelihood would with terminal illness bear the onus of proving that the • That the NSW Ministry of Health and wealth was legitimately acquired; and Department of Attorney General and • introduced serious drug offender Justice give further and detailed confiscation orders, enabling forfeiture consideration to the issues surrounding of all property whether obtained legally lawful supply of crude cannabis or illegally unless deemed as ‘protected products for medical purposes (May). property’ (May). Sixth report on Drug Use in the Inmate Newman Government review released of Population (DUIP) released. Showed a Youth Justice Strategy (Jun). steady and significant decline in use of Announcement of the inaugural QLD Mental drugs in NSW prisons, from 62% in 2001-02 Health Commissioner Dr Lesley van to 37% in 2009-10. This was much greater Schoubroeck to commence 1 July 2013. A than the decline in rates of pre-prison drug whole-of-government strategic plan for use (at 84% & 73% respectively in 2001-02 Mental Health and AOD is to be developed and 2009-10) (Jun). within 12 months (Jul). 17-year old Henry Kwan died after taking Queensland police recruit real estate agents NBOME (a synthetic LSD-like drug) and to help them find and dismantle clandestine jumping off a third floor balcony - thinking drug laboratories: using a training program he could fly (Jun 6). that teaches property managers how to spot NSW Government introduced a temporary laboratories and collect evidence during ban on 19 synthetic drugs (Jun 9). inspections. Highlighted that drug used by Henry Kwan – Qld Government released: “The Queensland NBOMe – was not on temporary banned list Plan: a 30-year vision for Queensland”, (Jun 16). outlining draft strategic vision for Qld. NSW Government’s General Purpose Included key objective of reducing rates of Standing Committee No.2’s Inquiry into lifestyle diseases caused by lack of exercise, Drug and Alcohol Treatment issued it’s final poor diet, alcohol, smoking and drug abuse report. Key recommendations: (Dec). • Consider expanding the Drug Court Queensland Needle and Syringe Program program beyond Sydney & Hunter; (QNSP) data indicate a continual increase • Consider expanding the availability of (approx. 28% per year) in the number of naloxone; people who reported obtaining needles and • Increase funds to Life Education; syringes to inject ‘ice’: from 7,921 in 2009 • Match drug treatment funds to to 10,132 in 2011 13,028 in 2012 (Jul). treatment demand using the Drug and Consultation occurred on the Queensland Alcohol-Clinical Care and Prevention Mental Health and Drug Strategic Plan: Planning Model; & including an AOD specific forum organised • That if naltrexone implants are by QNADA (Sep). approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, that the NSW Criminal Law and Other Legislation Government fund a randomised control Amendment Act 2013 adopted. Introduced trial of naltrexone implants (Aug). new requirement that all drug traffickers serve at least 80% of their term of Drugs and Poisons Legislation Amendment imprisonment before being eligible for (New Psychoactive and Other Substances) parole and increased maximum penalty for Act 2013 adopted. Prohibited the aggravated supply e.g. drug trafficking to manufacture, supply, sale or advertising of anyone aged 16 or under (from 25 years to all psychoactive substances (subject to life imprisonment) (Aug). appropriate exemptions) – maximum penalty of $2,200 or two years Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 44 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland imprisonment. This supplemented existing provisions to ban use and trafficking of specific named ‘prohibited drugs’ through Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act and their analogues. The Act also removed requirement for analogues of prohibited drugs to have psychotropic properties (Sep 24). Drug Misuse and Trafficking Amendment (Prohibited Substances) Regulation 2013 added 45 new psychoactive substances (including synthetic cannabinoids, 2C-X and NBOMe) to the list of prohibited drugs in the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act; along with threshold quantities for trafficable, commercial and large commercial trafficking offences (Sep). James Munro (aged 23) died of a suspected ecstasy overdose at the Defqon.1 festival (Sep). New NDARC research released: "Engagement with criminal justice system among opioid-dependent people." Examined all entrants to opioid substitution therapy (OST) for opioid dependence in NSW between 1985 and 2010 and their criminal justice contact and showed that a minority of opioid-dependent people are responsible for most CJS contact: 67.4% of CJS charges due to 20.8% cohort (Sep) NSW cannabis clinic expanded to include synthetic cannabinoid users (Oct). NSW Government released response to the inquiry on the use of cannabis for medical purposes. They supported recommendation one; that they write to the Commonwealth Minister for Health and Ageing, expressing in principal support for the expansion of access to approved cannabis pharmacotherapies, but rejected all other recommendations, including considering lawful supply of crude cannabis products for medical purposes. The government argued that it “does not support the use of unregulated crude cannabis products for medical purposes as the potency and safety cannot be guaranteed” and that this decision would not prevent access to appropriate medical treatment for any patient in NSW” (Nov). NSW health authorities introduce first Australian pop-up rapid testing site to combat rise in HIV (Nov). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 45 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland

2012 ACT Greens issued a bill for reform of the NSW Legislative Assembly Legal Affairs The Northern Territory Council of Social First Report of the Queensland infringement system relating to road traffic Committee launched: “Inquiry into law Service (NTCOSS) announced that the NT Mental Health Commission Advisory offences: Road Transport (General) reform issues regarding synthetic drugs.” Government had agreed to fund a peak AOD Committee released: on formation of a (Infringement Notices) Amendment Bill The inquiry sought to examine law reform body for the NT: the Alcohol and Other mental health commission. (NB. Model was 2012 (Feb). issues regarding the prohibition of synthetic Drugs Association of the Northern Territory rejected by Newman government) (Jan). ATODA released a discussion paper calling drugs and to consider the adequacy of (AADANT) (Jan 31). “Inquiry into severe substance for the extension of reforms of the ACT current NSW legislation. Submissions were Justice (Corrections) and Other Legislation dependence: a model for involuntary Infringement Scheme from roadside drug to received from Feb-Apr (Feb 16). Amendment Act 2011 entered into detoxification and rehabilitation” lapsed due other infringement schemes, including the First phase of the Intensive Drug and operation. This introduced two new to likely dissolution (Feb). Simple Cannabis Offence Notice scheme Alcohol Treatment Program (IDATP) in NSW sentencing options: Community Custody Queensland Liberal National Party (LNP) (Mar). prisons opened, with space for 62 male and Community-Based Orders. This gave elected, under Premier Campbell Newman. Government response to the report, Human inmates (Feb). the Courts the power to order offenders into Key policy platforms included: Rights ACT 2004 (ACT): The First Five Years Former NSW Health Minister, John Della rehabilitation, education and training, and • Establish a permanent major crime of Operation, tabled. Noted the positive Bosca, said the ‘war on drugs’ has failed, & community work programs as an alternative squad, based on the Gold Coast: achievements and desire to build upon this called for another drug summit to reassess to imprisonment (Feb). • Take a hardline approach to drug (Mar). Australia’s approach to drug policy (Apr). The NT adopted into law the new Poisons traffickers & dealers who target children ACT Infringements System Reform The NSW Youth Drug and Alcohol Court was Standard (SUSMP) under the Therapeutic with tough sentencing laws; introduced for road traffic offences: (1) axed. NSW Attorney General, Greg Smith Goods Act 1989, including the Schedule 9 • Introduce tough new unexplained Options to pay fines through installments; SC, said the program was too expensive. prohibition of synthetic cannabinomimetrics: wealth and drug trafficker declarations; (2) A system of community work and social The closure occurred without consultation Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods • Drug traffickers to serve at least 80% development programs, which people on low (Jul 1). Act 2012 (Apr). of their sentence before being eligible for parole income or with special circumstances can The NSW Attorney General, Greg Smith SC, NT Country Liberal Party elected, under undertake in lieu of payments; (3) Options Chief Minister Terry Mills (after 11 years of • Establish a Queensland Mental Health tabled the NSW Law Reform Commission’s Commission (QMHC) (Mar 24). to waive fines in special circumstances report on the Bail Act. Of note, the report labor rule). Key policy platforms included: (May). outlined there had been many reversals of • Mandatory drug testing for anybody Passage of legislation for the establishment ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher released the presumption of bail for drug trafficking arrested for an assault on or about a of the Queensland Mental Health the Draft Strategic Framework for the offences. Recommendations of the report: licensed premise; Commission (QMHC) (March 2013) with Management of Blood-Borne Viruses in the • A new Bail Act should be drafted in plain • Tougher bail conditions for any crime commencement 1 July 2013. Alexander Maconochie Centre 2012-2014. English language, so as to be readily that poses a risk to the general public; The Federal Government announced that a Strategies included: understandable, and with a clear and • Tougher penalties for offenders who Task Force would be established to examine • A proposal for a trial needle and syringe logical structure; breach bail (Aug 27). organised crime on the Brisbane waterfront. program in the Alexander Maconochie • The scheme of presumptions, The Australian Medical Association's This will begin in early 2013 (May). Centre – on a one-for-one syringe basis. exceptions and exceptional Northern Territory branch says it would A heroin distribution network operating in The trial will constitute the first circumstances in the current legislation consider supporting the decriminalisation of south-east Queensland, with alleged links to Australian prison-based NSP. should be replaced with a uniform a range of drugs (Sep). Balkan crime groups, was detected following • That detainees have screening and presumption in favour of release The Alcohol and Other Drugs Association of an 18-month covert investigation vaccinations for all those coming into the applicable to all cases except those the Northern Territory (AADANT) became an codenamed Operation Storm. The AMC. covered by an entitlement to release & incorporated body and held their first Policy investigation was conducted by the Crime • That detainees within the AMC have appeal. Forum for the AOD Sector (Nov 30). and Misconduct Commission (CMC), ready access to full-strength household • The authority must consider: (a) The NT Mini-Budget 2012-2013 released. Queensland Police Service, New South bleach and information and education entitlement of every person in a free Wales Drug Squad and the Australian about how to prevent and manage BBVs society to liberty and (b) The Revealed intent to abolish the Smart Court and the Alcohol and other Drug Tribunal (as Federal Police said the network has operated (Aug). presumption of innocence. for six years (2006-2012) (May). • In decisions on bail, a person must not a means of saving funds) (Dec). High level of media debate about the The Crime and Misconduct Commission’s proposed NSP at the AMC (Aug). be detained unless a custodial sentence NT Police seized crystal methamphetamine, is likely (Jun). steroids and 362 tablets containing PMMA Proceeds of Crime team restrained the ACT Comorbidity (Mental Health and assets of the purported leader of the heroin NSW drug education unit abolished (Jun). and arrested three males in connection with Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Problems) a suspected drug syndicate that was distribution network (arrested through Strategy 2012-2014 released (Aug). The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government sourcing drugs from a Sydney-based Middle Operation Storm). The order covered assets As part of 2012-13 budget the ACT announced in the 2012-13 Budget they will Eastern crime group and selling them out of including 2 properties, 5 cars and a boat: Government announced the establishment expand prisoner rehabilitation programs a Darwin hotel room. The PMMA tablets worth an estimated $216,195 (Aug). of a Throughcare Unit to better support including through the new Intensive Drug were being marketed as ‘ecstasy’ (Dec). Queensland State Budget 2012-2013 and Alcohol Treatment program (Jun). prison detainees returning to the community The Northern Territory announced their released. Outlined a number of areas of and co-ordinate their service delivery and The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government major cuts, including: Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 46 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland case management. A total of $1.12 million announced that the Grafton Correctional Alcohol and other drug Court Tribunal would • Loss of 14,000 FTE positions from the has been provided over two years (Jun). Centre, a minimum and medium security be cut (Dec). public service. The ACT Labor Party and the ACT Greens prison on the far north coast of NSW, will be • Queensland Health’s Grant program (Mr Shane Rattenbury MLA) signed a downsized (from 243 to 64 inmates) to cuts of $120 million over four years. parliamentary agreement that they would become a transient and remand centre • Court Diversion and Referrals program “establish a needle and syringe exchange (Jun). cuts of $5.015 million in 2012 – 2013 program at the AMC medical centre.” This Over-dose Prevention Education and and $10.226 million in 2013 – 2014. was one of the conditions made in order to Naloxone (OPEN) project commenced in Of particular note Premier Newman form a minority government, following the Sydney: Kirketon Road Centre. The goal was announced that post ten years of operation 2012 ACT Election (Nov 2). to reduce mortality and morbidity amongst the Queensland drug courts would no longer The Human Rights Amendment Bill 2012 PWID, particularly by educating PWID and be funded (the Murri and special was adopted, adding section 27A Right to their carers about opioid overdose circumstances courts were also de-funded) education to the act. This entered into force prevention and management and (Sep). on 1 Jan 2013 (Aug). prescribing take-home naloxone (Jun). QNADA released a new Policy Position – Ms Katy Gallagher MLA, ACT Chief Minister Mental Health Act Review Discussion Paper “The role of AOD in the Qld Mental Health and Minister for Health tabled the report released with submissions invited until Dec Commission.” This supported the Newman “The Review of the Need to Expand Drug 2012 (Sep). Government’s proposed establishment of a Queensland Mental Health Commission and Alcohol Rehabilitation Services in the Law Enforcement (Powers and ACT, 2012” and the Health Directorate (QMHC). But, while arguing inclusion of AOD Responsibilities) Amendment (Kings within QMHC would be beneficial, it response to the report in the ACT Legislative Cross and Railways Drug Detection) Assembly. Key conclusions from the report: advocated for specialist AOD input: Bill 2012 adopted. This authorised the use • Due to the specialist nature of AOD • There is no strong evidence of a need by police officers of dogs for general to increase the number of residential treatment services and its’ unique drug detection (without warrant) at any policy framework, ongoing reform of the rehabilitation beds in the ACT; public place in the Kings Cross precinct & • There is evidence of barriers for many sector from within the QMHC will be extended powers to use dogs across the best achieved by the assigning of people to accessing treatment and entire railway network (Oct 29). support services, including residential responsibility and leadership to a rehabilitation programs, which need to Inquiry commenced by a Legislative Council designated position, such as a Deputy be removed. General Purpose Standing Committee into Commissioner for AOD (Sep). Recommendations included: “Drug and alcohol treatment”: evaluating Queensland Health contracted Siggins Miller • Providing referrers, prospective clients current polices with a particular focus on to conduct “Queensland Alcohol and Other and family members / friends of those deterrence, treatment and rehabilitation Drugs Residential Service Sector Mapping with alcohol, tobacco and other drug (Nov). and Review Project.” (ATOD) problems, with more detailed Inquiry commenced by a Legislative Council QNADA released a position paper on information about the eligibility General Purpose Standing Committee into “recovery and harm minimisation.” This criteria, structure and content of “The use of cannabis for medical purposes”. argues that in the Australian context the programs and expectations of those Key issues include the efficacy and safety of primary goal of treatment and prevention who participate in programs using cannabis for medical purposes; if and should remain harm minimisation (Sep). • Improve intake, transition and how cannabis should be supplied for medical aftercare support (Aug). use; the legal implications and issues and Queensland Government released the discussion paper: “Establishment of the any other related matters. A total of 122 submissions were received. The inquiry is Queensland Mental Health Commission.” due to report in May 2013 (Nov). This outlined the proposed model for the QMHC (with one month for feedback) (Oct). NSW HIV Strategy 2012-2015 adopted. As part of this the NSW Coalition Government A new Mental Health Alcohol and Other committed to expand Needle and Syringe Drugs Branch located within the Health Program (NSP) access. Key strategies: Services and Clinical Innovation Division • more outlets for NSP distribution came into existence. Responsibility for the • more automatic dispensing machines AOD agenda, which had rested in one unit that allow 24hr access & (the Alcohol and Drug Treatment Strategy • permitting people who obtain equipment Unit), was split across this and another from NSP outlets to distribute that branch within the Health Services and equipment to peers without criminal Clinical Innovation Division, under the penalties (Dec). rationale of better integrating the AOD Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 47 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland agenda across the division. Accordingly responsibility is spilt across the branches for Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs and the Chief Health Officer in 4 separate teams: • Lead responsibility for ongoing AOD policy and AODS treatment is delivered by the Partnerships and Programs Team (Planning and Partnerships Unit, Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Branch) • AOD Prevention is delivered by the Intergovernmental Partnership Team (Preventive Health Unit, Chief Health Officer Branch) • Opioid treatment and monitoring is delivered by the Medicines, Regulation and Quality Team (Health Protection Unit, Chief Health Officer Branch) • Needle Syringe Programs are delivered by the Blood Borne Virus and Sexually Transmitted Infection team (Communicable Diseases Unit, Chief Health Officer Branch) (Oct). Criminal Law Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2012 introduced outlining: • Introduction of a new ‘aggravated supply’ offence in the Drugs Misuse Act 1986 for drug traffickers who target children. Offenders are liable to a max penalty of life imprisonment for a schedule 1 drug and 25 yrs for a schedule 2 drug and • The conditions for the cessation of the Queensland’s Drug Court by 30 June 2013 and transitional arrangements. A gradual approach to the termination of the Drug Court has been adopted to allow offenders, currently subject to an intensive drug rehabilitation order under the Drug Court Act 2000, time to complete their order (Nov). Queensland Mental Health Commission Bill 2012 tabled, to establish: • a Mental Health Commission and • a Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Council (Nov). Youth Justice (Boot Camp Orders) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2012 passed (Nov). Queensland Crime and Misconduct Commission released a new report: ‘Illicit drug markets in Queensland.’ This noted the MDMA market is showing signs of a resurgence and is continuing to attract organised crime (Dec). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 48 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland QLD Drug Action Plan ceased – with new strategic planning pending establishment of the QMHC (Dec). 2011 The Minister for Community Services NSW Premier Kristina Keneally opened the The Northern Territory Council of Social Eight years post freezing the assets of released a discussion paper “Towards a state's second Drug Court in Toronto, citing Services (NTCOSS) initiated moves to Charles Edward Cannon, a convicted diversionary framework for the ACT”. This the success of the Paramatta drug court. A establish a formal AOD Peak for the methamphetamine trafficker, the Qld acknowledged the need for a much more third drug court was promised if Labor won Northern Territory: the Alcohol and Other Supreme Court made a landmark proceeds whole of government approach to diversion re-election (Mar). Drugs Association of the Northern Territory of crime ruling: State of Qld v Cannon (Feb). New Liberal Premier Barry O Farrell elected (AADANT). [2011] QSC 075 (03/1166) Brisb Applegarth Knowledge Consulting report released: (28 Mar). NT Drug Summit: “Forging the Future – J 8/04/2011. The ruling marked the end of “Report of the Independent Review of Practical Responses to Contemporary the state’s longest and largest proceeds of New report released by the NSW Auditor- crime battle and meant that Cannon, who it Operations at the Alexander Maconochie General: “Effectiveness of cautioning for Issues” (Apr 13). Centre.” Report examined the first 12 was alleged had earned $27 million through Minor Cannabis Offences”. Key conclusions: A large two day police operation in the aim his methamphetamine business, was months of operation and noted concerns • 39,099 people cautioned. of deterring drug and alcohol distribution to about a lack of coordination of some drug ordered to pay back $4.2 million in crime • Cautioned people reoffended less than the Northern Territory resulted in the proceeds to the Qld government (Apr). policies and procedures (Mar). those charged. seizure of $2385 in cash and 367 grams of New report released: “Health Status of Yet: cannabis. Operation revolved around 48 hr Qld Government announced intention to put Young People in the ACT”. Report showed • Youth were less likely to be cautioned in road blocks on both Larapinta Drive and the forward a new bill: ‘Criminal Law the use of illicit substances by young people 2009-10 than 2000-01 Tanami Highway and was undertaken by the Amendment Bill 2011’ to ban 15 synthetic decreased. For example, lifetime use • Huge variation in caution rates between Alice Springs Substance Abuse Intelligence cannabinoids and to amend the Drugs amongst those aged 12-17 decreased from police commands e.g. 74% in Eastern Desk, Drug Intelligence Unit and Dog Misuse Act 1986 to revise the definition of 20.3% in 2005 to 14.8% in 2008, suburbs vs. 26% in Parramatta. Operations Unit, members of the Darwin banned ‘analogues’. The new law proposes continuing the downward trend since 1996 Recommended reviewing barriers to Remote Community Drug Desk and to address the rise of new ‘legal’ substances (37.5%). Use of at least one substance in cautioning, particularly for young offenders Hermannsburg Police and Southern Traffic that mimic known illicit substances, and the last week also declined: from 4.8% in (Apr). operations (May). eliminate the current requirement that an 2005 to 3.7% in 2008 (Apr). analogue is only banned when there is proof New crime squad will be established on Regulations amending the Misuse of Drugs that the new substance has a similar Burnet report (2010-2011) tabled in the ACT Sydney Harbour to target drug trafficking Act banned a total of 18 substances used to chemical structure and effect to scheduled Legislative Assembly: “External component and organized criminal through NSW ports. manufacture synthetic cannabis (including dangerous drugs. Under the proposal any of the evaluation of drug policies and A key motivator was declining levels of Kronic) (12 Aug) substance that is ‘intended’ to have a services and their subsequent effects on inspections by Australian Customs and A further five substances were added to the substantially similar pharmacological effect prisoners and staff within the Alexander Border Control: just 3.6% of shipping banned list of synthetic cannabis (31 Aug). as known illicit drugs will be banned. The Maconochie Centre.” Key findings were: containers over the last 12 months. proposed bill will be subject to consultation • High prevalence of lifetime and current Operation Polaris, led by Detective NT Attorney General released the “Review of the Northern Territory Youth Justice by stakeholders including the Sentencing illicit drug use at the AMC and evidence Superintendent Peter McErlain will comprise Advisory Committee (Jun). of trafficking of drugs into the prison. 25 NSW Police officers, 15 AFP agents, and System.” Key findings: • Reports of at least one case of in-prison operatives from the NSW and Australian • NT youth offending is trending upwards Queensland Drug Action Plan 2011-2012 transmission of HCV within the new Crime Commissions (May). in a number of areas released. Plan seeks to reduce cannabis use AMC. • The no. of young people involved in the and heavy drinking by 11% by 2012 (Jun). Mental Health Minister Kevin Humphries justice system is small but is • Several positive program activities at made headlines when he was photographed Crime and Misconduct Commission issue a the AMC went some way to fulfilling increasing. ‘schoolies alert’ about GHB, due to recent with a synthetic cannabinoid, Kronic, on • Young people in detention are more drug policy objectives. However, these Oxford Street: “Why is this MP buying a bag peaks in supply and use (Sep). constituted ‘pockets of effectiveness.’ likely to be on remand than serving of weed?” The Minister highlighted concerns sentences QNADA released a new report: “Building Report made 69 recommendations inc: the product could have a potency up to 100 Capacity in Alcohol and Drug Services – The • Development of a specific drug policy Key recommendations included: times greater than marijuana and cause • Increase investment in police diversion, Queensland Experience – A Tough but framework for the AMC; hallucinations and psychosis (14 Jun). Perfect Confluence” (Oct). • Consultations with relevant and expand diversion programs stakeholders to identify feasibility of a NSW Government announced ban on the • Establish a new unit with responsibility Premier Anna Bligh announced that the trail NSP at the AMC & appropriate sale and use of synthetic cannabinoids for administering all youth justice Queensland Government would establish an models for its delivery; including Kronic, Spice, Kaos Voodoo, system services independent Mental Health Commission (the • Exploration of a model for provision of Mango and Northern Lights. From 8 July • Develop a new youth justice strategy Commission) from 1 July 2012 to drive naloxone to prisoners at release; 2011 cannabinoids will be listed under (Oct). improved performance, coordination and • Swifter pharmacotherapy provision: Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and transparency in the delivery of mental <48 hours after requesting induction Trafficking Act 1985 (along with cannabis health services in Queensland (Oct). (Apr). and heroin etc) and require retailers and The Alcohol and Other Drugs Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 49 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Mr Michael Moore, CEO of the Public Health consumers to arrange for safe destruction of Treatment Strategy Unit (AODTSU) became Association of Australia (PHAA) was engaged all supplies (28 June). part of the Mental Health Alcohol and Other by the ACT Government, to respond to the Former assistant director investigations for Drugs Directorate (see also (Oct). Burnet Report by: assessing barriers and the NSW Crime Commission, Mark Standen, Queensland Mental Health Commission enablers to implementation of an NSP in the was found guilty of conspiring to import and Advisory Committee was established (Nov). AMC; & investigating models for delivery supply 300kg of pseudoephedrine and (May). “Inquiry into severe substance conspiring to pervert the course of justice. dependence: a model for involuntary Minister for Health, Katy Gallagher MLA, During the trial Crown prosecutor Tim detoxification and rehabilitation” launched become Chief Minister of the ACT (May). Game, SC, alleged that given thirty years of by the Health and Disabilities Committee of Petition signed by 86% of the Alexander involvement in law enforcement agencies, the Queensland Parliament. The inquiry Maconochie Centre's correctional officers including Australian Customs, Australian sought to report on a model for the called on the ACT Legislative Assembly to Federal Police and intimate involvement in involuntary detoxification and rehabilitation reject any proposal for a needle and syringe gathering intelligence on drug syndicates of persons with severe substance program at the AMC. Put together by the and money laundering, it was harder to dependence, including examining the Community and Public Sector Union it stated imagine a ‘greater breach of trust’. He was potential benefits and costs of implementing that “our working environment in the AMC is later sentenced to 22 years imprisonment: a model for the involuntary medicated already dangerous enough and we will HR v Standen [2011] NSWSC 1422 (8 detoxification and rehabilitation of persons actively fight any proposal to make it worse December 2011) (Aug and Dec). with severe substance dependence and by introducing needle syringes into our The finding that Mark Standen was involved examining initiatives in other Australian and workplace.” Petition was tabled by in organized crime sparked renewed calls for international jurisdictions (Dec). opposition Liberal corrections spokesman a Royal Commission of the NSW Crime Jeremy Hanson (21 Jun). Commission (Aug). Chief Minister and Minister for Health, Katy NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher rejected Gallagher MLA tabled the ACT Government's calls for a full Royal Commission, but final response to Burnet Report (evaluation established a special commission of inquiry of drug policies and services at the AMC), into the NSW Crime Commission to review arising actions and timelines. The ACT the commission’s structure and Government announced no immediate accountability (Aug). disagreement with any of the 69 NSW 2021 plan released. NSW 2021 is the recommendations. Instead, 20 were agreed 10 year strategic plan setting immediate to in full, including the need to develop a priorities for action and guiding resource drug strategy for the AMC and to improve allocation in conjunction with the NSW the governance structure overseeing policies Budget. Key priority actions include: and services. Another 26 recommendations establish dedicated metropolitan drug were agreed to in principle, including treatment facilities focused on treatment exploration of the development and and rehabilitation; encourage greater use of implementation of a program to provide non–custodial punishment for less serious Naloxone to at-risk prisoners on release (28 offenders and create availability and access Jun). to diversionary program; review treatment Under local medicines laws the ACT and intervention programs to identify ways Government automatically adopted the to increase completion rates; improve the decision of the Therapeutic Goods Authority way government agencies share information to prohibit from 6 July eight synthetic to deliver integrated services and cannabinoids. This made manufacturing, management of offenders; assist in possession, supply and/or use within the diverting people with mental health ACT illegal from 8 Jul (amnesty on problems out of the criminal justice system prosecution was provided until Aug 8) (Jul). and into services which meet their needs Public Health Association of Australia report (Sep). released: “Balancing access and safety: Report of the Special Commission of Inquiry meeting the challenge of blood borne into the New South Wales Crime viruses in prison - report for the ACT Commission released. The report by retired Government into the implementation of a judge David Patten found no evidence that NSP at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.” any members are engaged in criminal

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 50 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Report made 7 recommendations including activity, but concluded that the existing that the ACT Corrections Management Act accountability mechanisms were inadequate. 2007 be amended to require the Key recommendations included that an establishment of an NSP at the AMC. Key Inspector be appointed to oversee the NSW evidence to support this was the high Crime Commission, ensure compliance with number of IDU in the prison (a third of the law, assess the effectiveness of inmates had reported injecting drugs) and procedures and deal with complaints of that an unregulated NSP already operated, misconduct (Nov). controlled by prisoners not health workers. Attorney General, Greg Smith SC announced Three models for an NSP were put forward: the establishment of the first dedicated • Model 1: A contained NSP; alcohol and drug rehabilitation prison facility • Model 2: Equipment provision from in NSW, which will provide an Intensive existing AMC health centre; Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program • Model 3: ‘One for one’ exchange (IDATP) for male and female inmates. The vending style machines (Jul). first phase will involve a 62-bed unit for ACT Government provided 6 weeks of public male inmates at John Morony Correctional consultation on the PHAA Report views and Centre, to open in February 2012. Eligible recommendations (Jul-Sep). offenders will be sentenced inmates with a Following the 6 July scheduling by the documented history of problematic drug Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of and/or alcohol use, with a minimum or eight synthetic cannabinoids, the ACT medium security classification (Nov). adopted the changes under local medicines Attorney General, Greg Smith SC announced laws. This made it illegal from 8 July to the establishment of the second manufacture, obtain, possess, supply, sell metropolitan drug court: at the Downing and/or use products containing synthetic Centre Local Court, opposite Hyde Park cannabis in the ACT (Jul). (Nov). Practice directions for a new ACT Youth Drug Figures obtained by the NSW Greens though and Alcohol Court (YDAC) were adopted. Parliamentary questioning showed that NSW The program, starting as a two year trial on police sniffer dogs were wrong 4 out of 5 1 Dec 2011, sought to provide a pre- times when they indicate people had drugs sentence diversionary opportunity for on them. This led Greens MP David children and young offenders with a Shoebridge MLC to conclude the high error demonstrable alcohol or drug problem (Jul). rate, and high level of public humiliation, Justice and Community Safety Directorate, showed the program must be halted (Dec). ACT Road Safety Action Plan 2011-2013 and ACT Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020 adopted. Both include roadside drug testing initiatives (Nov). Street Law Report released - “The Downward Spiral: How a fine can cause homelessness in the ACT.” The report identified that the ACT infringement system was having a disproportionately negative impact on vulnerable populations, including those with serious AOD issues (Nov). Australia’s first overdose management program that provides naloxone (Narcan ®) on prescription to potential overdose victims launched. Training will be conducted for opioid users and other potential overdose witnesses over a two-year year period with 200 participants. Eligible participants who successfully complete the training will be Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 51 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland prescribed naloxone by a General Practitioner upon reaching a level of competence and assessment. The program will be evaluated by an external evaluation team led by Associate Professor Paul Dietze and Professor Simon Lenton (Dec).

2010 Government released for public comment its NSW Health funded KPMG to conduct a new Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk targeted Crime and Misconduct Commission enquiry proposed bill for roadside drug testing. The and independent evaluation into the cannabis and amphetamine trafficking on into claims Gold Coast police officers have Road Transport (Drug Driving) Bill 2010 was effectiveness and efficiency of the Medically major routes and highways entering and been involved with organised crime gangs, argued to be a comprehensive bill that Supervised Injecting Centre. exiting the Northern Territory. including outlaw bikies, importing drugs and would fit within existing policies on human Media reports increasing use of an ecstasy Review of the Alcohol and Other Drug dealing them through big Gold Coast rights and harm minimisation (27 May). like stimulant – mephedrone or miaow Service Components of the Northern nightclubs (Feb). Former ACT Supreme Court judge Ken miaow – following increased border seizures Territory Emergency Response ‐ Final Report Crime and Misconduct Commission Report Crispin published a book, “The Quest for and accounts of use in dance scenes released. This noted that while the Northern released “Illicit drug markets in Queensland: Justice,” which questioned the war on drugs. including Newcastle where it was reported Territory Intervention (introduced 21 June A strategic assessment.” Report identified In it he states that treating illicit drug use as to have been sold for $2 a hit (Mar). 2007) expanded some AOD services due to that methyl-amphetamine continued to pose a criminal justice problem has not and will Arrests for possession and use of cocaine in fears that it would lead to more demand for the highest risk to the Qld community, but never work (May). NSW increased 55% from 486 in 2008 to AOD detoxification/services, there were a was likely to pose a decreasing risk in the The Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug 753 in 2009 prompting calls by the NSW number of problems with the process. Key future due to law enforcement activities. Association Australian Capital Territory Inc Bureau of Crime Research and Statistics problems included: But, the risk of two drugs was deemed to be (ATODA), was launched as the new that more cocaine was getting into the • The absence of involvement of the NGO increasing: cocaine due to increased independent peak body for the ACT ATOD country (Apr). sector in the discussions. For example, supply/use and ecstasy due to changes in sector. It provides for members from both while the AOD Working Group patterns of use namely use of multiple An integrated mental health, drug and (established in Nov 2007) was tablets in a session (Feb). the non-government and government alcohol and community health facility – the sectors (18 Jun). consulted this did not include Queensland’s chief health officer, Dr O’Brien Centre – was opened at St Vincent’s representation from this sector. ACT Human Rights Commissioner provided Hospital. The centre aimed to provide a Jeannette Young, announced that doctors • Swift timelines led to some poor had to be more careful when prescribing her opinion that the opposition bill for more coordinated one-stop approach to decision making which was not in the roadside drug testing was non-compliant meeting needs e.g. detox, opioid treatment, drugs containing pseudoephedrine (PSE), best interest of the NT AOD services which could be used in the production of with the ACT Human Rights Act since it anxiety disorder units and mental health e.g. emphasis upon expansion rather failed the proportionality test: it would workers (May). illicit amphetamines. Data from pharmacy than capacity of organisations. audits, data from the Pharmacy Guild of impinge on human rights but did not NSW attorney general announced that Recommended: guarantee doing so would lead to justifiable Australia and information from the eleven years following the established of the • That the operation of an independent Queensland Police Service State Drug community benefit. She also argued that 1st NSW drug court in Parramatta a 2nd drug peak body be funded for all AOD there was conflict with the ACT drug Investigation Unit had indicated increased court would be established in Toronto, NSW. programs in the NT regardless of the repeat and bulk prescriptions (Apr). legislation, as the ACT had decriminalised The cited reason was recent evidence of nature of the organisation in which they possession of personal supply of cannabis effectiveness (17 Jun). operate. Criminal Organisation Act 2009 commenced. yet random roadside drug testing would That a long term cooperative plan for the Act seeks to increase Qld police powers to impose serious criminal sanctions on the use Opposition leader Barry O’Farrell said he disrupt & restrict the activities of remained “concerned” that the Medically development of AOD services in the of cannabis (29 Jun). Northern Territory be developed (May). organisations involved in serious criminal Supervised Injecting Centre had “not met its activity. The Act enables the Police Road Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) goal of providing a pathway for users to (Random Drug Testing) Amendment Bill Commissioner to apply to the Supreme access services to end their addiction” and Court to declare an organisation a ‘criminal 2009 passed by the opposition party he wanted proof that the centre was helping (Liberals) and the Greens for testing of organisation’ for a 5 year period; to enact to end addiction before he would consider control orders against individual members, cannabis, ecstasy and amphetamines (30 calls for the centre to be made permanent Jun). such as preventing association with any (16 Jun). member of a ‘criminal organisation’; to The ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug The Greens candidate for the federal seat of provide for public safety and fortification Strategy 2010-2014 adopted. Specific aims Wentworth, Matthew Robertson called on removal orders; and to create a new offence were minimising harm, improving health the NSW Government and Opposition to end of contravening a control order, which and social well-being, developing evidence- the trial period for the Kings Cross Medically carries a maximum penalty of 3 years' jail based policies and implementing the Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) and for the first offence & 5 years' jail for Strategy Action Plan in a manner that make it permanent (27 Jun). subsequent offences (15 Apr). respects, protects and promotes human rights. 66 strategic priorities were specified BOCSAR released new report: “Trends in Operation Warrior, the largest organised Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 52 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland based on the size and severity of the property and illicit drug crime around the crime investigation in the Crime and problem, evidence of effectiveness of Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in Misconduct Commission’s history detected a interventions and the environmental factors Kings Cross: An update.” Report concluded national poly-drug syndicate that facilitate or impede effective there was no evidence that the MSIC had (methamphetamine, ecstasy and cannabis) implementation. Key interventions included: caused a negative impact on robbery, linked to outlaw motorcycle gangs that • Implement a local warning system property crime or drug offences in Kings crossed south-east Queensland, North regarding drug market & drug-related Cross (Sep). Queensland, Sydney and Melbourne. Large harms; KPMG evaluation of the Medically Supervised quantities of drugs were also seized • Ensure prisoners & other detainees can Injecting Centre (MSIC) from 2007-2010 including 3544 ecstasy tablets and 25 litres access the same community-based AOD released. Core findings were that since of precursor GBL (capable of producing 60 programs in & post detention; introduction MSIC had received litres of GHB) (May). • Develop a specific policy framework to approximately 70,000 visits per year and: Inquiry into addressing cannabis-related support consumer participation in drug • managed 3,426 overdose events with harm in Queensland received public treatment & support services; & submissions and held public inquiries. • Implement national clinical guidelines no deaths onsite; • provided a gateway to drug treatment Chief Justice of Queensland, Paul de Jersey, for the management of drug use during th pregnancy, birth & early years (Jun). and other services, with 8,508 referrals addressed the 12 International Criminal Law Congress in Brisbane spoke of the Amanda Bresnan MLA for the ACT Greens (3,871 to drug treatment) since commencement; & benefits of considering creative solutions to released a new paper ‘Implementing a illicit drugs. He commended the Swiss Needle and Syringe Program in the • reduced problems with public injecting, response to the heroin problem, through Alexander Maconochie Centre’ for public as evidenced by a decrease in reported heroin prescription and provision of consultation. The paper proposed that a sighting of public injecting from 55% in supervised injecting rooms, and the needle syringe program be introduced into 2000 to 27% in 2010 (Sep 14). Portuguese decriminalisation of illicit drug the ACT prison (Jul). Drug Misuse and Trafficking Amendment use (Oct). Repeal of Part 9 of the Drugs of Dependence (Medically Supervised Injecting Centre) Bill Act 1989 led to end of the Treatment 2010 adopted. This removed the trial status Referral Program (TRP) program (Aug). of the Kings Cross Medically Supervised ACT Chief Minister, Mr Stanhope, said that Injecting Centre, thereby enabling the in light of the New South Wales centre that had been operating since May Government's decision to formalise an 2001, to become a permanent fixture. The injecting room in Sydney's Kings Cross, he bill was adopted with 22 votes of support will now consider the idea of introducing a and 15 against (4 Nov). needle syringe program in the new NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Nick Alexander Maconochie Centre (Sep). Cowdery QC, who is set to retire in March Paper 'Implementing a Needle and Syringe 2011, released his own legislative agenda Program in the Alexander Maconochie that included decriminalising drug use, Centre—Summary of responses to possession and small-scale trafficking. He discussion paper', prepared by Amanda said that the current approach to illicit drugs Bresnan, ACT Greens MLA, tabled in the was "ineffective, wasteful and inconsiderate Legislative Assembly for the ACT (Nov.) of the human rights of those concerned"(Nov). The first Annual General Meeting of the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association Former NSW Police analyst Terry Gregoriou ACT Inc. (ATODA) conducted, with Ms Anne sentenced to 14 months imprisonment for Kirwin elected as the inaugural President leaking confidential police documents to the (Nov.) Comancheros motorcycle gang (Dec). Expanding Naloxone Availability in the ACT New interactive website providing drug and (ENAACT) Committee formed, a governance alcohol information for young people – Your group that sought to provide expert Room – was launched. The website, an guidance and support the development of a initiative of NSW Health and the Alcohol and program to expand Naloxone availability in Drug Information Service (ADIS), provides the ACT. Key members include: an A to Z of drugs and their effects, • Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation helplines, campaigns and treatment options and Advocacy (lead) (Dec). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 53 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland • ACT Ambulance Service; • ACT Corrections Health; • ACT Health; • ATODA; • Burnet Institute; • National Drug Research Institute; & • Pharmacy Guild, ACT Branch (Nov). ACT 2011/2012 Budget Submission for a program involving peer administration of Naloxone. Budgeted $100,000 per year for 24 month trial involving 200 participants (Dec). The ACT Legislative Assembly asked the Attorney-General to direct the ACT Human Rights Commission to conduct an inquiry into the youth justice system, and to undertake a Human Rights Audit of Bimberi Youth Justice Centre (Dec).

2009 Human Rights ACT 2004 (ACT): The First The NSW Supreme Court ruled that the NSW The Prison In-Reach Program commenced at The Courier Mail commenced a three month Five Years of Operation Report released. Department of Human Services had been in Darwin Correctional Centre. The program series of articles called “The Drugs Scourge” Concluded that the Human Rights Act has serious abuse of their position in demanding consists of five multi-disciplinary team which aimed to “spur public debate and improved the quality of law-making in the that parents who use cannabis were unfit to members who offer comprehensive alcohol drive government action on ecstasy and Territory by ensuring human rights concerns care for a child, and ordered the return of and other drug assessments, intensive amphetamine use.” Key articles included are given due consideration in the framing two removed children (Jan). counseling, group work and aftercare “drugs menace uncovered,” “bars, clubs of new legislation and policy (Jun). NSW Drug and Alcohol Treatment Act support to all prisoners at DCC and the Don awash with drugs” and “drug users’ Russian Workshop on Strategic Directions and enacted which provides for the involuntary Dale Juvenile Detention Centre (Jan). roulette.” The Courier Mail campaigned to Governance for the ACT AOD Sector held at treatment of persons with a severe New Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk get pill presses banned (Mar). University House, ANU, Canberra: resolved substance dependence. The act is being (SAID) and Drug Operation Unit (DOU) Queensland Legislative Assembly referred a to establish an incorporated ACT ATOD Peak trialed for an initial period of 18 months in established in Katherine, in the goal of paper by Drug Free Australia “Cannabis: body. Resolution subsequently endorsed by Auburn, Blacktown, Blue Mountains, reducing cross-border supply of licit and suicide, schizophrenia and other ill-effects” the ACT ATOD services Executive Directors Hawkesbury, Holroyd, Lithgow, Parramatta illicit substances in the the Northern to the Social Development Committee for Group (Jul 27-28). and Penrith council areas and The Hills Regional Police Command, including East investigation and report. The enquiry was Draft ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Shire. Under the act health workers, family Arnhem, Nhulunbuy, Groote Eylandt and the explicitly asked to consider: Strategy 2010-2014 released for public members and other interested parties may Milingimbi areas. This followed the success • The risks associated with cannabis use, comment and consultation (Nov). refer a severely drug or alcohol dependant of the first SAID established in Alice Springs particularly for youth; & person to a medical practitioner for (Feb). • Strategies to reduce cannabis use in Draft ACT Comorbidity Strategy released for assessment. Individuals will be involuntarily Queensland (20 May). public comment and consultation (Dec). Northern Territory Government announced a detained for treatment (for an initial period “new era in corrections”. Key to this was the Telecommunications Interception Act 2009 Opposition police spokesman Jeremy lasting up to 28 days) provided they meet development of a new Darwin Correctional commenced. Act enabled use of Hanson tabled a bill - Road Transport the following criteria: Precinct that would include: telecommunications interception by Qld (Alcohol and Drugs) (Random Drug Testing) • that they have a severe substance • an 800 bed Correctional Centre with Police Service and Qld Crime Commission to Amendment Bill 2009 - seeking to give dependence, & additional capacity for a further 200 target criminals involved in serious and police powers to conduct roadside drug • care, treatment or control of the person beds; organised crime (18 Jun). testing for cannabis, ecstasy and is necessary to protect the person from • a 30 bed Secure Mental Health and A two-year joint operation between amphetamines, similar to provisions in place serious harm & Behavioural Management Facility in other Australian jurisdictions. • the person is likely to benefit from Queensland Police and the Australian Crime (MHBMF); and Commission claimed to have smashed a Consideration of the Bill was deferred (Dec). treatment for his or her substance • a 48 bed Supported Accommodation dependence but has refused treatment Goldcoast based drug-trafficking syndicate and Program Centre for community that included senior members of the Finks & based offenders (Feb). • no other appropriate and less restrictive outlaw motorcycle club. The operation means for dealing with the person is Following an internal departmental review culminated with the arrest of 41 people after reasonably available. The trial will be the Opioid Pharmacotherapy Program and two Finks clubhouses and the homes of evaluated by KPMG (Feb). withdrawal treatment services introduced a members and associates were raided (Nov). new time effective treatment approach to Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 54 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Research by BOCSAR into the link between case management. Under the new approach methamphetamine and violence found that clients attend an eight-session relapse after adjusting for a number of risk factors prevention program followed by a four- for re-offending (e.g. age, sex, Indigenous session coping skills program. status), offenders with a prior conviction for Completion of $4M capital redevelopment of an amphetamine offence were no more Banyan House. This enabled the centre that likely than those with no prior drug offences was first established in 1978 to be to be subsequently charged with a violent converted into a modern residential offence (Feb). rehabilitation centre. NSW Health commenced a state-wide New arrangements to support withdrawal Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Traineeships service options introduced in Alice Springs. program in the non-government sector. The These arrangements were based on a program aimed to increase the number of partnership between Drug and Alcohol tertiary qualified Aboriginal Drug and Services Association (DASA) and Alcohol Alcohol workers in the non-government and Other Drugs Services Central Australia sector (Jun). (ADSCA) in the aim of streamlining referral Draft NSW Youth Health Policy released pathways, enhancing medical supervision 2010-2015 for consultation (Dec). and support and assisting clients to access NSW Health commenced a 4 month services they need. statewide social marketing campaign aimed at warning people aged 18-25 of the dangers of club drugs: “Don't let drugs use you this summer party season.” NSW Health partnered with festival organizers e.g. Homebake and used posters and advertisements in street press, music and festival websites, nightclubs and outdoor music events (Dec).

2008 ACT Government released the adult health Crimes Amendment (Drink and Food NT Government adopted roadside drug Drugs Misuse Amendment Bill 2007 passed. services plan for Canberra’s new prison: Spiking) Bill 2008 adopted. Bill created a testing for cannabis, amphetamines and Bill reclassified MDMA and PMA (an Alexander Maconochie Centre. The plan new summary offence of spiking a person’s ecstasy (Feb). amphetamine type drug) from schedule 2 to allowed the provision of bleach but not a drink or food with an intoxicating substance Federal Government provided $2 million in schedule 1 dangerous drugs. Maximum needle syringe program for inmates. The with intent to harm the person (max penalty funds to expand drug detection dogs and penalties for possession, supply and strategy stated that the position would be 2 years imprisonment or $11,000 fine, or establish a new drugs intelligence desk to trafficking increased from 20 to 25 years reviewed, as part of a comprehensive both) (Mar). assist in drug supply reduction efforts in (Feb). evaluation, 18 months after the prison was MSIC survey of pharmaceutical opioid (PO) Arnhem Land and the Katherine region Report released on the Queensland Drug commissioned (Mar). injectors showed 72% commenced PO use (Mar). Court: “The Queensland Drug Court: a The report of the 2007 External Review of subsequent to heroin injection. PO use New research by Senior and Richard, recidivism study of the first 100 graduates.” the ACT Alcohol and Other Drug Service appeared associated with lesser harms. e.g. published in the Australian Journal of Rural Study tracked recidivism over a minimum of System, undertaken by Siggins Miller on Rate of heroin overdose was 0 – 2.5 per Health released: ‘Lukumbat marawana: A two years post-graduation, making this behalf of ACT Health, was released. 1000 visits for PO injectors compared to 4.7 changing pattern of drug use by youth in a evaluation the longest follow-up of Reviewers considered the current – 11 per 1000 visits for heroin injectors remote Aboriginal community.’ Found that Australian drug court graduates to date. arrangements, the changing needs of the (Mar). the restrictions in the availability of alcohol Report found that after leaving the drug population, the issues affecting the AOD NSW Mental Health/Drug and Alcohol and petrol (as part of the Commonwealth court program 59% of those who graduated service system, and its capacity to address Comorbidity framework for action adopted. Northern Territory Intervention) led to had been reconvicted of a new offence them. Reviewers recommended enhancing Framework sought to increase the capacity increased use of marijuana (Mar). within two years compared to 77% of the system capacity for pharmacotherapy and competency of both the mental health terminates. Average time to first offence clients, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Study released showing rates of cannabis was 139 days for terminates compared to and drug and alcohol workforce to manage use during 2005-06 were three times higher clients, rehabilitation and relapse and respond to comorbidity and to address 379 days for graduates (Mar). prevention, plus building AOD literacy, in Arnhem land than in the general systemic barriers to communication and population, with 61% males and 58% Media reports claimed Qld Police in Fortitude workforce development and governance and collaboration. Key areas of work include Valley were thankful that 80% Fortitude accountability. ACT Health initiated a females aged 13-36 reporting weekly use workforce planning and development, compared to 24% males and 21% females Valley patrons used illicit drugs not alcohol consultation process with stakeholders to infrastructure and systems development, and that drugs made them much easier to Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 55 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland discuss the report’s findings and and improved responses for priority clients in the general population (May). manage than alcohol (Aug). recommendations. e.g. amphetamine users with mental health Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill made Research from QADREC showed ecstasy had Liberal MLA Steve Pratt tabled legislation to issues (Apr) trafficking drugs into remote communities become the drug of choice for young introduce roadside drug testing in the ACT. Proposal by Iemma Government to trial an aggravated offence and increased the Queenslanders following the Rudd The Government responded that it would medical use of cannabis. Needed support of maximum penalty for from five years to nine Governments 70% tax hike in alcopops not rush into introducing such a proposal Federal Government to allow importation of years imprisonment (Jun). (Sep). and that it was examining the evidence from the oral spray – Sativex (May). NTPFES Police report that the tri-state Queensland Health adopted a dual diagnosis other jurisdictions and would consult with Mark Standen, Assistant Director of NSW Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk had policy including that all mental health and the community on the issue (Apr). Crime Commission, arrested for conspiring cracked a number of long-standing crime alcohol and drug specialists screen everyone Discussion Paper: Review of the Road to import 600kg of pseudoephedrine, rings that ran cannabis from Adelaide into at their initial presentation for co-morbid Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977 enough to produce $120 million of “ice” and remote central Australia, selling at about 16 disorders and that no one be excluded on released by the ACT Government. Paper conspiring to pervert the course of justice times the supply price. the basis of co-morbidity (Sep). aimed to get community views on issues (Jun). Partnerships were developed and/or Qld Police report that Lebanese criminals such as how to introduce roadside drug The NSW Government recalled and pulped a enhanced between NT Health and Families with links to the Sydney underworld were testing in the ACT, what drugs should be drug education booklet “Choosing to use ... and a number of service providers including trying to take part in the Gold Coast ecstasy tested for, whether drug testing should be but wanna keep your head together?” Top End Mental Health Services, NT Families trade (Oct). compulsory for all drivers detected for drink saying its advice about what people should and Children, Aged and Disability, NT Police, Queensland Drug Strategy 2006-2010 driving and whether offences should the do if they take drugs was unacceptable Department of Justice and NT Correctional same as for drink driving. The ACT Midpoint Evaluation released. Key (Jun). Services. Development and strengthening of achievements included the adoption of the Government provided two months to receive these networks and partnerships was seen feedback (May). A preliminary evaluation of NSW Stimulant Queensland Corrective Drug Strategy in Treatment Program released. Report showed as a critical step in improving the effective 2006, the role out of a number of The ACT AOD Sector Project announced that during the first 6 months 214 people delivery of services to all client groups diversionary programs e.g. QMERIT and a the First Annual ACT Alcohol and Other accessed the program and 50% participants affected by illicit drug use (2008-2009). decrease by approximately 20% in clan labs Drugs Sector Conference would be held as had not previously sought any formal located in Qld which was attributed in part part of Drug Action Week 2008 (May). treatment. Key outcomes included to Project STOP, collaboration between Proposed ACT legislation for the introduction significant reductions in drug use, severity police, government and industry and the of roadside drug testing lapsed (Oct). of dependence, distress, mental health aggressive pursuit of proceeds of crime Legislation passed allowing police to carry problems and crime (Jun). (Oct). out undercover controlled operations to Inaugural MSIC Director Ingrid van Beek target drug cartels, money laundering and resigned saying that her one regret was that terrorist cells: the ACT Crimes (Controlled the MSIC continued to operate as a trial as Operations) Act 2008 (18 Aug). the trial status was a barrier to its effective ACT Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic practice and meant it remained a political Goods Act 2007 was passed. The act football (Jul). consolidated four acts and regulations on NSW Police run series of forums on ice, medicines, poisons and prohibited targeting children aged 12-18. The series substances. The act repealed the Poisons aimed to reduce reported use amongst and Drugs Act 1978, the Poisons Act 1993, teenagers, change perceptions that use was the Public Health (Prohibited Drugs) Act glamorous and tell parents about the signs 1957 and amended the Drugs of their child was using (Aug). Dependence Act 1989 to provide a more The Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol unified and workable scheme (Aug). Office commenced discussions with ACT Government released its Draft Mental stakeholders regarding the Opioid Health Services Plan 2008 – 2013 for public Treatment Strategic Plan 2010–2015 (Aug). consultation (Sep). 2nd BOCSAR report on trends in property Alcohol and Drug Foundation ACT Inc and illicit drug-related crime in Kings Cross (ADFACT) announced its intention to released. Report showed very little operate - in partnership with ACT Corrective difference in the incidence of robbery and Services and ACT Corrections Health – a property crime in Kings Cross versus the therapeutic community in Canberra’s new rest of Sydney with both having declined. prison Alexander Maconochie Centre (Dec). There were differences in regards to ACT Comorbidity Strategic Working Group use/possess offences, with less heroin Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 56 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland was established with the assistance of use/possess and deal/traffic offences but funding provided by the Australian more cocaine use/possess offences in Kings Government Department of Health and Cross (cfed to Sydney). But spatial analysis Ageing National Comorbidity Project’s was unable to conclude whether this was Improved Services Initiative. due to the MSIC or other factors associated with Kings Cross (Sep). First women charged in NSW with large- scale supply of Oxycodone, the prescription drug known as “hillbilly heroin” (Sep). Two children were taken into foster care after the NSW Department of Community Services (DOCS) reported concerns over their parents’ use of cannabis. This followed demands by DOCS that the parents remain “drug free” and provide random urine samples (Sep). A re-evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of the NSW Drug Court showed the cost of the Drug Court was estimated to be $32.752 million ($16.376 million per annum). The cost of conventional sanctions was $36.268 million ($18.134 million per annum) which meant the drug court gave a net saving of $1.758 million per annum (Sep). Media reports asserted NSW doctors were being pressured into wrongfully prescribing Oxycodone, a drug that was later being sold on the streets for profit (Oct). Second evaluation of the NSW Drug Court released. The study concluded that offenders who attended the drug court were 17% less likely to be reconvicted for any offence and 30% less likely to be reconvicted for a violent offence than drug dependent offenders sentenced to imprisonment through the traditional court. The program was also proven to save $2 million a year when compared to the traditional response (Nov). Outcry over a brochure titled “A users guide to speed” was displayed to year 8 students attending a NSW sponsored community information day (Nov).

2007 ACT Draft Adult Corrections Health Services 20 year old Annabel Catt died after Substance Abuse Committee formed to Queensland Police commenced random Plan 2007-2010 released. Noted that needle attending a Good Vibrations dance party and provide strategic advice (Jun). roadside drug testing for cannabis, syringe exchange should be considered and taking what she thought was ecstasy. The Northern Territory Intervention adopted. amphetamines and ecstasy (Dec). ACT Health planned to consider the merits tablet was later proved to contain PMA Included widespread alcohol restrictions, Amendments to the Drugs of a trial in the Alexander Maconochie (Feb). increased policing, medical examinations of Centre (Jul). Misuse Regulation 1987 the it illegal to NSW Police commenced a pilot of Random all Indigenous children and reforms to publish or possess documents containing ACT drug user group - Canberra Alliance for Drug Driving Testing with roadside saliva welfare system (Jun). instructions about the manufacturing or Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA) – testing for cannabis, amphetamines and Legislation for Northern Territory illicit drugs (punishable with up to 25 years re-opened (Jul). ecstasy (Jan).Drug and Alcohol Plan 2006– Intervention passed - Northern Territory imprisonment) and supply any items for Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 57 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland ACT Corrective Services Drug, Alcohol and 2010 adopted (Mar). National Emergency Response Bill 2007 illicit drug use (punishable with up to 15 Tobacco Strategy 2006 - 2008 adopted. MSIC interim evaluation report no. 3 on (Aug). years imprisonment) (??). Strategy aimed for harm minimisation, client referral and health issues released The NT incorporated PSYCHECK into its The Ice Breaker Strategy Taskforce demand reduction and effective clinical (Mar). clinical practice to improve screening and completed its report to the Qld Government. management for substance misusers (Sep). MSIC interim evaluation report no. 4 on brief intervention for high prevalence mental Key recommendations included a targeted service operation and overdose-related health disorders in alcohol and other drug young adult illicit drug campaign, legislation events released (Jun). services. banning the retail display and supply of ice Establishment of an AOD Working Group pipes, a 3-year pilot study at 2 hospital Medically Supervised Injecting Centre trial emergency departments for ATS responses continued 2007-2011 (Jul). (Nov). and expansion of Alcohol and Drug Evaluation of NSW Cannabis Clinics showed Adolescent Withdrawal Service outreach that on average 31% clients experienced a services (Jun). reduction in their cannabis use and 42% were abstinent upon treatment completion. Key elements of effective service delivery were that cannabis clinics were marketed & promoted as separate, discrete services for problematic cannabis use and that clinics were located in generic facilities, rather than in identifiable D&A services. The report identified that access to cannabis clinic services was limited by factors such as geographical location, proximity to transport and hours of operation. Evaluators argued there was scope for alternative models of service delivery (Jul). NSW Hepatitis C Strategy 2007-2009 adopted. NSW Attorney General stated that the cumulative effect of amendments to the NSW Bail ACT was that NSW “now has the toughest bail laws in Australia” (Oct). NSW MERIT: Health Outcomes study completed. Study demonstrated that by program exit at three months, levels and types of illicit drug use and associated risk behaviours were significantly reduced and levels of physical and psychological health had improved. At exit 39% participants were abstinent from all illegal drugs & the frequency of use reduced across all drugs. Most notably daily use decreased from 45% to 11% for cannabis & from 24% to 1% for heroin (Nov). Amendments to the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) banned the possession of recipes for drug manufacturing and the possession of certain precursors and apparatus used for manufacturing illicit drugs. Penalties included $2,200 or 2 years imprisonment for possession of drug manufacturing recipes, $110,000 and/or 5 years imprisonment for

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 58 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland possession of the precursors and a maximum of 10 years imprisonment for possession of apparatus for the manufacture of drugs (Nov).

2006 Report on “ACT Government Expenditure on NSW HIV/AIDS Strategy 2006-2009 First Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk Amendments to the Tobacco and Other Preventing and Responding to Drug Abuse, adopted. (SAID) established in Alice Springs in a joint Smoking Products Act 1998 prohibited the 2004-05” estimated ACT Government In response to fears of higher potency of operation between the Commonwealth, sale or display of ice pipes or bongs and expenditure on drug abuse in 2004-05 was hydroponic cannabis NSW Premier Iemma Northern Territory, South Australian and made such offences punishable with a $85.094 million, 3.2% of the total ACT and his cabinet officers introduced tougher Western Australian governments to $10,500 fine (Jan). budget for the year. Of this 22% was spent legislation for hydroponic cannabis. coordinate and target the trafficking of licit Queensland Network of Alcohol and other in the health sector, 77% in the law Amendments to the Drug Misuse and and illicit substances/alcohol in the cross- Drug Agencies Inc (QNADA) commenced enforcement sector and 1% on emergency Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) included: border regions (Jan). (May). services (Mar). • A max penalty of $220,000 and/or 10 NT Road Safety Taskforce Report 2006 QMERIT (Queensland Magistrate’s Early Final report on trial of the syringe vending years imprisonment for the cultivation found that the risk of being killed in the NT Referral into Treatment) program introduced machines released. Concluded trial had gone of 5-49 plants for individuals; was 3 times greater than anywhere else in (Jul). well and been accepted by community and • A max penalty of $385,000 and/or 15 Australia and indeed greater than in all recommended expansion of syringe vending years imprisonment for the cultivation other nations in the developed world. 48% Fourth Queensland Drug Strategy 2006- machines in the ACT (Jun). of 50-199 plants; of fatal crashes were alcohol-related and a 2009 released (Oct). ACT drug user group - Canberra Alliance for • A max penalty of $550,000 and/or 20 Drug-Use Monitoring in Australia pilot in NT Criminal Code (Drink Spiking) and Other Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA) – years imprisonment for the cultivation indicated one in three people detained for Acts Amendment Bill 2006 adopted. Bill closed (Jul). of 200 or more plants; driving offences tested positive to illicit created a new offence of spiking a person’s The new penalties were 5 times greater drugs. Taskforce called for laws to test for drink with an intoxicating substance with than for non-hydroponic cultivation. drug-driving (Jun). intent to harm the person (maximum Maximum penalties were also increased for penalty 5 years imprisonment) (Oct). the theft of electricity to power hydro Qld Premier and Minister for Health houses ($11,000 and/or 2 years established an Ice Breaker Strategy imprisonment) (Feb). Taskforce chaired by Chief Health Officer Dr MSIC interim evaluation report no. 2 on Jeannette Young to oversee the community attitudes towards the service development and implementation of a released (Mar). Queensland Government’s Ice-Breaker MSIC reported that pharmaceutical opioids Strategy to reduce uptake, use and harms had become the most commonly injected associated with methamphetamine use drug category, used for 40% all injecting (Dec). episodes (Apr). Queensland Corrective Services Drug Amendments to the Drug Misuse and Strategy adopted. Strategy enshrined “a Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW)banned the sale, zero-tolerance approach to drug use within supply and display or water and ice pipes a context of harm minimization” and and made them punishable with $2200 included and/or 2 years imprisonment (May). • supply reduction initiatives e.g. drug testing, staff searches, and use of drug NSW Ombudsmen report released: Review detection dogs and ionscan devices of the Police Powers (Drug Detection Dogs) • demand reduction initiatives e.g. Act 2001. This reviewed use of the drug provision of range of treatment options detection dogs over their first two years of plus drug treatment units and a Drug operation. Key findings: Free Incentive Program (DFIP) • Prohibited drugs were only located • harm reduction initiatives e.g. in 26% of the searches following pharmacotherapy maintenance an indication. treatment for eligible short term • Only 1.38% of all indications offenders and peer education on the involved a prescribed ‘deemed harms associated with drug use, their supply’ quantity of a prohibited effects and issues concerning overdose drug. and unsafe injecting practices. • No evidence that the use of drug detection dogs disrupted low-level Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 59 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland street dealing in a sustained manner. • No evidence of a deterrent effect on drug users. Review concluded: Despite the best efforts of police officers, the use of drug detection dogs has proven to be an ineffective tool for detecting drug dealers and that there should be a review of whether the legislation should be retained (Oct). Stimulant Treatment Program (STP) commenced in Darlinghurst and Newcastle to provide clinical interventions for people with co-morbid mental health and stimulant drug-related problems (Nov). Prisoner at the NSW Corrective Services complex in Surry Hills – Gary Kelso – died after failing to receive medical attention while in heroin withdrawal (Nov). 1st BOCSAR report on trends in property and illicit drug-related crime in Kings Cross released. Report showed similar patterns of theft and property offences in Kings Cross and broader Sydney (both declining) and similar trends for most use/possess and dealing/trafficking offences. Report concluded the MSIC had not at this stage had an adverse effect on crime in Kings Cross (Nov).

2005 Trial of syringe vending machines MSIC interim evaluation report no. 1 on Profile of Services and Interventions Project Project STOP commenced by Pharmacy commenced at the Civic, Belconnen, operation and service delivery released commissioned (Jan). Guild of Queensland – used online database Tuggeranong and Phillip Community Health (May). Report on Profile of Services and to track sales of pseudoephedrine. Project Centres (Feb). MSIC reported they had started to see Interventions released (Jul). STOP was a partnership between Qld Police and the Pharmacy Guild (Nov). Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis for Medical increases in injection of pharmaceutical Conditions Trial) Amendment Bill 2005 opioids (mostly morphine and oxycodone) Police Powers and Responsibilities (Drug sponsored by a Greens member Dr Deb (Aug). Detection Dogs) Amendment Act 2005 Foskey as an exposure draft 18 Oct 2005 - passed to enable police use of drug lapsed. detection dogs without a warrant on

Criminal Code (Serious Drug Offences) persons, vehicles and things in public Amendment Act 2004 came into force, places, licensed premises, and at sporting reducing eligibility criteria and entertainment events (Nov). for the Simple Cannabis Offence Notice (SCON) scheme. The new criteria included a maximum of 5 to 2 cannabis plants and excluded all hydroponically grown plants (May). ACT Minister for Health, Simon Corbell MLA, announced that he would propose to his Cabinet colleagues that the new Canberra prison – Alexander Maconchie Centre – have a needle syringe program (NSP) as part of its comprehensive health plan (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 60 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland

2004 Human Rights Act adopted in the ACT (Mar). NSW Premier announced trial of medical use Alcohol and Other Drug Program convened New user group established - Queensland Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis for Medical of cannabis had stalled because while the forum for drug and alcohol treatment Injectors Health Network (QuIHN) (Jul). Conditions) Amendment Bill 2004. Presented government had examined a number of agencies to advise on the improvement of by Ms Kerrie Tucker (Greens). Date options, the preferred delivery method – a service delivery and outcomes (Mar). presented: 30 June 2004 (5th Assembly). metered-dose inhaler or spray – was years New NT health strategy adopted - “Building Defeated 25 August 2004. away from being available and the NSW Healthier Communities: A framework for (and federal) government opposed any health and communities services 2004- Third ACT drug strategy released: Alcohol, means that allowed growing in backyards Tobacco & other Drugs Strategy 2004-2008. 2009.” Framework had six priority areas i.e. decriminalisation of cannabis cultivation included strengthening families and tackling This included an action plan for or purchase on the black market (Apr). implementation (Aug). substance abuse through increasing MERIT completed roll-out to all Area Health availability and quality of treatment services ACT Drugs of Dependence Act 1989 Services in NSW (Jun). for substance abuse (Apr ???). amended to allow supply of needle and syringes through vending machines (Aug). Health Advisory Council established, chaired by Dr Charles Kilburn, as part of the Building Healthier Communities strategy. Council aimed to provide the NT health minister with community views on the effectiveness of current health (including drug and alcohol) policies/services, and issues of concern (Apr). Northern Territory Police Remote Communities Drug Strategy commenced (later named the Remote Area Drug Strategy). This was a proactive strategy targeting the supply of illicit drugs. Northern Territory Police Remote Community Drug Desk (RCDD) established to coordinate and implement the Remote Communities Drug Strategy. The RCDD is comprised of strategic officers of the Drug Enforcement Section who pool intelligence from local level policing initiatives and undertake strategic and tactical operations aimed at disrupting the distribution of drugs to and within remote communities (May). Drug Dog Detection Unit established within NT police (Dec). Release of the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report: Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection. The report concluded that there were significant shortfalls in the Northern Territory Government’s response to substance abuse, particularly within remote communities and that there was insufficient coordination for substance abuse for the three main substances of abuse: alcohol, petrol and cannabis. Key recommendations were to increase coordination between government agencies, to identify and address the gaps in service delivery and that a community audit be conducted to assess the needs, assets, Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 61 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland resources and views of each remote community, with the goal of prioritizing future programs on the basis of the community audit. Drug detection dogs commenced operation (Dec).

2003 Court Alcohol and Drug Assessment Service NSW Premier Carr announced that a draft Margot Laughton, an Indigenous Illicits Drug Court Diversion Program evaluation completed by Morgan Disney and exposure bill would be introduced at the grandmother, became first person to have introduced (Mar) Associates – key recommendation: need to earliest opportunity to provide for a 4 year her home declared a drug premises. She increase trial of medical use of cannabis. It was was evicted from her Territory Housing unit program access and improve services for proposed that patients would register with in Darwin (Jan). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people an Office of Medical Cannabis in the NSW CREDIT NT (Court Referral and Evaluation (Jun). Department of Health and that the trial for Drug Intervention and Treatment, ACT Standing Committee on Health released would be tightly restricted to individuals who Northern Territory) introduced (May) report “Access to Needles and Syringes by met strict medical conditions and were aged 18 or over and were not pregnant or on A private member’s bill – Legislative Intravenous Drug Users.” Report Assembly Members (Random Drug Testing) recommended that the Government install parole. This had in principle support from the Opposition Leader, John Brogden MP Bill 2003 – was introduced to the NT injecting equipment vending machines Legislative Assembly by Mr Stephen across the whole of the ACT and that it provided cultivation and distribution were tightly regulated. Details of how THC would Dunhum MLA. The bill sought mandatory provide injecting equipment exchange in the annual illicit drug testing for members of the ACT prisons (Aug). be legally supplied to registered users remained to be established by the legislative assembly. Bill subsequently ACT Government announced $250,000 to Government (May 20). lapsed. implement priority areas of drug strategy Provisional support from Prime Minister for 4 Establishment of the NT Clinical Advisory including 100 extra treatment places to trial Committee needle and syringe vending machines and year trial of medical use of cannabis in NSW examine the feasibility of needle exchange but only if drug could be provided in non- Criminal Property Forfeiture Act 2002 in ACT prisons (Dec). smokeable form (May 23). introduced, giving the DPP the power to NSW Area Health Service closed apply to the court for an unexplained wealth Cabramatta’s Drug Intervention Service declaration against a person, and reverse (DISC) after increased community concern the onus of proof to prove assets are legally over the service (Jul). obtained. The act allows that assets from organized crime and drug trafficking to be Phase one evaluation of Medically seized, without need for conviction of Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) criminal wrong doing. released. During the first 18 months of operation 3,810 clients had registered to use the MSIC and there had been 56,861 visits (average of 15 per client). 409 drug- overdose related incidences occurred and were managed at the MSIC (7.2 ODs per 1000 visits). In addition to supervision of injecting, health care services e.g. vein care advice were provided every 1 in 4 visits and 1 in 41 visits resulted in referrals for further assistance e.g. treatment of drug dependence. The evaluators concluded that the MSIC was feasible and had reached target group. There was evidence the MSIC contributed to less public injecting, improved public amenity and less risky injecting practices. Public support for the service also increased. At the same time there was no evidence that MSIC contributed to increased theft or robbery or

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 62 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland loitering. But the predicted reduction in ODs in the area was not observed. The evaluators recommended continued monitoring if the trial were extended (Jul). Trial of MSIC extended until 2007 and new evaluation established (Oct).

2002 Alcohol Tobacco and other Drug Taskforce Use of drug detection dogs commenced (22 COAG-IDDI agreement signed (Jan) Criminal Proceeds Confiscation Act 2002 established to devise a new drug strategy Feb). New user group established - Network adopted allowing the court to confiscate (Aug). The Ryde Needle Syringe Program was Against Prohibition Northern property derived from criminal activity such New ACT drug user group established - closed by the NSW Minister for Health after Territory (NAPNT) (Mar). as drug trafficking without charge or conviction. Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and local media attention to unused needle and Report from Taskforce on Illicit Drugs. Advocacy (CAHMA). syringes being found in the grounds of the Concluded that compared to the rest of local primary school (Mar). Australian the drug situation remained very MSIC trial extended additional 12 months to distinct in NT. E.g. alcohol remained the enable operation during evaluation (Oct). major drug of concern. The Taskforce Launch of the NSW Hepatitis C Strategy argued that the evidence on methadone was 2003-2006 (Nov). now substantial and strongly recommended amending the NT Poisons and Dangerous Drugs Act to enable pharmacotherapies for the treatment of opioid dependence for maintenance and withdrawal. Other recommendations included better advertising of treatment services, more training of treatment personnel and that NSPs be expanded in the NT (May). Public Order and Anti-Social Conduct Act repealed (Jun). Misuse of Drugs Act amended - introduced new rulings on drug premises orders. Enabled houses or business where there was evidence of supply or possession of drugs to be declared “drug premises” and for police to enter and search such premises and anyone on the premise without warrant for 12 months (Jul). Methadone maintenance program first provided in the Northern Territory, 33 years after methadone was first provided in Australia (Sep). Northern Territory Illicit Drug Pre-Court Diversion Program introduced (Dec).

2001 COAG-IDDI agreement signed (May) NSW Cabramatta Anti-Drug Strategy Labor party released three point tough on COAG-IDDI agreement signed (Mar) ACT election - ALP gained office and adopted to tackle drug and crime in drugs election policy. Included zero Police Diversion for Minor Drug Offences and postponed issue of a SIP trial until after the Cabramatta and across the state. This tolerance on drug production and Drug Court Program introduced (Jun) evaluation of the NSW MSIC trial (Nov) included a new criminal justice plan distribution, compulsory treatment for drug- including new laws and a new police station related offenders and a drug prevention Drugs Misuse (Amphetamine Offences) ACT Policing and Early Intervention in Cabramatta and local crime prevention. strategy (Mar). Amendment Act 2001 passed. Act Diversion Program (PEID - later called PED) Strategy was supported by funding of $18.6 reclassified amphetamine and methyl introduced (Dec) Country Liberal Party introduced Public amphetamine from schedule 2 to schedule 1 million over four years (Mar). Order and Anti-Social Conduct Act. Act gave dangerous drugs and increased maximum A NSW Police Officer involved in the fatal police new powers to define, “move on” and penalties for possession, supply and shooting of Jim Hallinan was dismissed after arrest people for 'anti-social' behaviour and trafficking from 20 to 25 years. Cited

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 63 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland testing positive to cannabis (Mar). to signpost houses as anti-social (Jun). rationale was the increasingly serious Medically Supervised Injecting Centre Change of government – NT election won by problem of amphetamine use and opened in Kings Cross as 18 month trial (1 Labor party (Aug). manufacturing in Queensland (Sep). May 2001). Taskforce on Illicit Drugs established with The 2nd Youth Drug Summit - involved 50 Research by Maher and Dixon showed police the mandate of examining trends, and using young people. Recommended that needed crackdowns in Cabramatta were associated national and international evidence to advise more incentives to obtain work, more youth with displacement of the drug market and on the role of pharmacotherapy treatments specific withdrawal options and flexibility in considerable public health risks to users and on the optimum responses for youth treatment (23 & 24 October). including increased oral and nasal storage of and other priority groups (Nov). heroin, decreased use of needle and syringe equipment and increased risk taking in injecting (May). The Police Integrity Commission report on the shooting of Ron Levi recommended the immediate introduction of random drug testing of all NSW Police Officers (Jun). Government’s Police Powers (Drug Premises) Act 2001 commenced giving police the power to search and close down drug houses, arrest drug dealers and lookouts operating from drug houses and arrest any person in or entering or leaving a drug house (Jul). Legislative Council’s General Purpose Standing Committee No 3 into Cabramatta Policing tabled its report and 25 recommendations. Report identified major deficiencies in policing in Cabramatta e.g. increasing neglect of drug-related crime which it attributed to questionable management practices (Jul). Random drug testing introduced in NSW Police Force. This supplemented the mandatory drug testing of officers involved in critical incidents (Sep). Police Powers (Drug Detection Dogs) Act adopted, giving police the powers to use a drug detection dog (or sniffer dog) in an authorized place (including a pub, sporting event or outdoor festival) or by warrant to aid in their detection of drug offenders. This followed their trial for general duty policing during the Sydney Olympics and made NSW the first state to adopt such provisions. In adopting the act the (then) Minister for Police, the Hon. Michael Costa MLC stated: “The bill is aimed primarily at detecting and prosecuting persons committing offences relating to the supply of prohibited drugs and plants. … It is clear that the activity envisaged is drug dealing” (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 64 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland

2000 Advisory Committee established to oversee COAG-IDDI agreement signed in NSW and The National Liberal Party proposed to Queensland Government introduced a Drug Supervised Injecting Place trial (Feb) the first program – the Adult Cannabis extend mandatory sentencing to drug Court (Jun). SIP trial postponed by ACT Government for Cautioning Scheme was introduced (Apr) trafficking offences 18 months (until election) following budget Inquiry by the Legislative Council’s General negotiations between the minority Liberal Purpose Standing Committee No 3 into Government and independents (Jul) Cabramatta Policing was established. As Court Alcohol and Drug Assessment Service part of inquiry Detective Sergeant Tim Priest (CADAS) introduced, following discussions claimed organised crime was rampant and between Chief police were being pressured to ignore the Magistrate and ACT Health (Oct) drug market (Jun). Lismore MERIT Pilot Program and Youth Drug and Alcohol Court were introduced (Jun - Jul) Report released by Working Party on the Use of Cannabis for Medical Purposes. Report agreed that THC can be useful in treating nausea, vomiting and appetite loss in patients with HIV and in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. But that crude cannabis cannot nor is likely to ever be prescribed in Australia. Recommended that further trials be conducted into administration of THC via non-oral routes and development of new synthetic cannabinoids. They further recommended that until medical cannabinoids become available individuals found obtaining, possessing or using cannabis should be exempt (for compassionate reasons) from criminal prosecution, provided they had a prior medical certification that they had a condition that might benefit from cannabis use (Aug). NSW Heroin Overdose Prevention and Management Strategy released involving $670,000 (Nov) First NSW Hepatitis C Strategy 2000 – 2003 adopted (Nov). Framework for Action - NSW Drugs and Community Action Strategy (Dec).

1999 Report on Evaluation of ACT Drug Strategy NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan Queensland Drug Summit held with a focus 1995-97 released. admits in an interview with Britain's Daily on youth issues. Involved 70 delegates – ACT drug user group - Australian Capital Mail that "we are not winning on the drugs politicians, youth workers, youth and Territory IV League (ACTIV League) front" and that drugs are the "root of most community workers. Resulted in disbanded crime" (Jan). establishment of 24 projects state-wide in Photograph of a teenage boy engaged in partnership with three peak youth and Dual Diagnosis: Stopping the merry-go- indigenous bodies (16-17 March). round a report of findings from a review of injecting drug use in a lane-way in Redfern, mental health and alcohol and other drug appeared on the front page of a Sydney Third Queensland Drug Strategy launched: problems in the ACT (Apr). Newspaper and sparked debate over the ‘Beyond a Quick Fix: Queensland Drug effectiveness of NSW drug policy (Jan 31). Strategic Framework 1999/2000 to Canberra Injectors Network, CIN was funded 2003/2004.’ Focus of strategy was on youth as new ACT drug user group (Jul). Minister for Health, Hon A Refshauge MP, closed down the Redfern needle exchange and early intervention (Jun). Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 65 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Second ACT drug strategy released: From outlet, and ordered a review of the $9 Queensland Drug Coordinating Committee Harm to Hope: ACT Drug Strategy 1999 million statewide needle exchange program (QDCC) established to coordinate and (Sep). (Feb). oversee implementation of Queensland drug Supervised Injecting Place Trial Act 1999 Premier, Hon B Carr MP, announced his strategy. passed by the ACT Legislative Assembly government would hold a drug summit if re- Inter-governmental committee, YADA (Dec). elected (Feb). (Youth Alcohol and Drug Action), established NSW Drug Court trial commenced (Feb) by QDCC to consider youth drug issues (Nov) Labor government re-elected under Premier Carr (Mar). Tolerance or T Room injecting room opened by a group of clergy, social workers and health professionals in the Wayside Chapel in Kings Cross (4-12 May). NSW Drug Summit held in NSW Parliament. Summit was attended by 135 NSW Parliamentary delegates; 2 Federal parliamentary delegates; 80 non- Parliamentary delegates; and 45 associate delegates (17-21 May). NSW Government response outlined in Government Action Plan. 172 recommendations from summit were adopted and 7 key strategic areas endorsed e.g. enhanced prevention and early intervention, fast-tracking new treatments, better case management and breaking the drugs-crime cycle. This included plans to introduce state-wide trials of a Cannabis Cautioning Scheme and Early Court Intervention Pilot (subsequently named MERIT) and an injecting room (Jul). NSW Government committed $176 million towards the implementation of Drug Summit recommendations and established a new Office of Drug Policy to provide leadership and coordination. Working Party on the Use of Cannabis for Medical Purposes established. This followed calls by the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and the Law Society of New South Wales for people with illnesses such as cancer and AIDS to be prescribed cannabis for pain relief (Aug). Legislation for injecting centre – MSIC passed – Drug Summit Legislative Response Bill (1999) (Nov)

1998 Discussions began around trialling a Mandatory drug and alcohol testing Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Illicit Drug Task Force ‘supervised injecting place’ (SIP) and introduced for NSW police officers involved convened Supervised Injecting Place Trial Advisory in critical incidents e.g. police shootings Committee was established. (Jul). NSW Legislative Council Standing

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 66 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland Committee on Social Issues inquiry into hepatitis C released report ‘Hepatitis C: the Neglected Epidemic.’ This made 132 recommendations including to expand prevention and control strategies, adopt a NSW strategy on Hepatitis C and to advocate for increased national attention to the prevalence and response(s) to Hepatitis C (Nov). Ethnographic research into heroin use in the Cabramatta drug market published in report: “Running the Risks: Heroin, Health and Harm in South-West Sydney. Report documented the patterns and contexts of heroin use, risk taking behavior, income generation and the impacts of street law enforcement activities.

1997 ACT Government formally sought and Four Corners report on the Cabramatta Introduction of mandatory sentencing in NT obtained support at the MCDS meeting for a outlined its decline from being a multi- for minor offences heroin trial (Jul) cultural melting pot to the heroin capital of Commonwealth Government declined to Australia, as evidenced by the highly visible authorise importation of heroin to support street dealing and use. Four Corners argued the trial (Aug) that in spite of five years of police efforts the drug trade had flourished, bringing with Canberra Injectors Network, CIN – it violence, death and police corruption established by drug users with aim of (Apr). providing peer-based education. Woods Royal Commission report concluded that a war on drugs approach contributed towards police corruption. Recommended increased attention to alternate approaches – increased focus on harm minimisation strategies, increasing public education, expanding methadone availability and establishing a supervised injecting facility (May). Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Social Issues was asked to inquire into Hepatitis C (HCV) and its implications for the community (May). NSW Police officers Rodney Podesta and Anthony Dilorenzo shot dead a mentally disturbed man, Ron Levi. Both police officers were later found to be cocaine users, who regularly partied before work. This led to public outcry since neither officer was drug tested at the time of the shooting (Jun). NSW Parliamentary Joint Select Committee established to consider feasibility of a trial of a supervised injecting facility (Jul). Several news articles appeared citing New South Wales Health Minister Andrew Refshauge’s claim that St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney received approximately five Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 67 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland people a day being treated for GHB overdoses (Nov). A Drug Intervention Service (DISC) was established in Cabramatta to provide a needle syringe program and counseling service to resident and visiting drug users. Cabramatta police began saturation policing in efforts to disrupt and displace the burgeoning heroin market.

1996 Heroin Pilot Task Force recommended that a Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) Cannabis expiation scheme introduced Party drug “Fantasy” or ”GHB” hit front page trial proceed (Jan) commenced in NSW, collecting data on illicit news after a mass overdose at a drug market trends Broadbeach venue in the Gold Coast put eight people on life-support systems (Oct).

1995 NCEPH/AIC team released report First ecstasy-related death reported – 15 Second Queensland Drug Strategy released recommending that a heroin trial proceed year old Anna Wood (Oct). and provided a detailed plan for a phased Formation of the 'Anna Wood Drug and series of studies that would begin with a Alcohol Project' which sought to provide trial of heroin prescription for 40 patients. It more abstinence based drug education in also recommended that 3 months of schools. consultation be undertaken to disseminate findings of report (Jun). Evaluation of the Needle Syringe Vending Machines at Kings Cross, Rozelle and ACT Government established a 29-member Parramatta released. Report concluded that Heroin Pilot Task Force chaired by Mr Kevin the machines were used by a broader range Waller AM to consult with the community of injectors compared to those who used the and make recommendations about whether staffed service at the community health or not the trial should proceed and how the centres, and that there was an increase in feasibility research might best be inquiries about hepatitis C issues due to implemented (Jul). information provided at the machines. ACT Government released its first drug Cabramatta police began high profile buy- strategy – ACT Drug Strategy 1995-97 bust interventions aimed at high and mid (Sep). level deals in efforts to reduce heroin market.

1994 Inquiry into police corruption launched. Commissioner: The Hon Justice JRT Wood (May). NSW Hepatitis C Taskforce established

1993 First Queensland Drug Strategy released

1992 Simple Cannabis Offence Notice (SCON) First NSW Drug Strategy released expiation scheme for cannabis offences 12 month trial of Needle Syringe Vending introduced - enabled cannabis offenders Machines commenced at Kings Cross, possessing <25 grams of cannabis or <5 Rozelle and Parramatta plants to avoid a criminal conviction by payment of a $100 fine 1991 Select committee of the ACT Legislative Assembly proposed expiation scheme for cannabis and a heroin trial National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH) and the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) began a study to determine heroin trial

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 68 Year Australian Capital Territory New South Wales Northern Territory Queensland feasibility (1991-1995)

1990 Misuse of Drugs Act NT 1990 adopted. This entered into force in Nov.

1989 1989 Drugs of Dependence Act (DODA) User group - New South Wales Users and User group - Northern Territory Users Forum Criminal Justice Commission established as The Treatment Referral Program (TRP) post AIDS Association (NUAA) formed (TUF) formed a result of the Fitzgerald Inquiry sentencing diversion program for illicit drug- First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program Changes to Drugs Misuse Act (as amended) related offenders opened in NT 1989 enabled supply of needles & commenced under the DODA (Mar) introduction of Needle and Syringe Select committee appointed to report on Exchange Program in Qld HIV, illegal drugs and prostitution First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program opened in ACT

1988 Australian Capital Territory (Self- Needle and Syringe Exchange Programs Commission of Inquiry into Possible Illegal Government) Act (Cth) passed creating a (later called Needle Syringe Programs) were Activities and Associated Police Misconduct legislative assembly and giving it limited widely implemented in NSW (Fitzgerald Inquiry) report released powers of self-government User group - Queensland IV AIDS User group - Australian Capital Territory IV Association (QuIVAA) formed League (ACTIV League) formed

1987 ACT Drug Indicators Project pilot NSW Government amended the Drug Misuse Changes to Drugs Misuse Act (as amended) commenced (1987-1989). Project linked and Trafficking Act 1985 legalising 1987 established a new offence for individual record data from the drug possession of needle and syringes and inappropriate disposal of needles and treatment and criminal justice systems in established Needle and Syringe Exchange syringes (Sep) the aim of increasing understanding of the Programs (later called Needle Syringe incidence, character and treatment and Programs) criminal justice responses to illicit drug use. AIDS and Drug Information Collective formed as lobby group

1986 First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program Drugs Misuse Act 1986 adopted opened - Darlinghurst (Nov) Possession of needles and syringes NSW Government established drug store- decriminalised based needle and syringe distribution First distribution programs of single syringes scheme (Dec) commenced

1985 Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 adopted

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 69 The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019: SA, Tas, Vic and WA

Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia

2019 Safer music event guidelines: improving Tasmanian Liberal MP Sue Hickey gave A 20-year old man died after a suspected WA Government outlined their response to safety and reducing harms at music events support for a trial of pill testing, noting that drug overdose at the Beyond the Valley the Methamphetamine Action Taskforce released. The guidelines were developed by ‘I really think it’s a health issue not just a festival (Jan 1). report. The supported in full or supported in Drug and Alcohol Services South Australian policing issue’ and that we have to stop City of Port Phillip renewed calls from two principal most recommendations. The one in collaboration with SA Police and other saying ‘no’ as we know no does not work. years prior to allow it to become home to not supported was the recommendation to stakeholders. Key recommendations She noted her decision to support a trial had Victoria's first pill-testing trial, noting that introduce prison based needle syringe including the provision of chill-out areas, come about after seeing the stances of the since then "there's been a bitter harvest of exchange, with the government noting “the free drinking water at multiple locations, Australian Medical Association, the Royal dead bodies around the country" and it is government is not considering the dedicated, equipped and accessible first-aid College of General Practitioners and former "unacceptable that governments turn their introduction of needle and syringe exchange locations and safe transport options (Mar). Australian Federal Police commissioner Mick backs on this anymore" (Jan). in the prison setting” but that “alternative SA Government and SA Police signed off on Palmer (Mar). harm minimisation strategies involving the Family Drug Treatment Court opened in expansion and continuation of existing protocols to trial the deployment of drug Motion for pill testing trial debated in Shepperton, following a three-year detection dogs in public high schools. (NB Tasmanian parliament. This called on the programs will be progressed to reduce the Broadmeadows pilot. This is the first such harms associated with illicit drug use and to there were no provisions for deployment at government to acknowledge that pill testing regional site (Mar). private schools). Under the protocol dogs is an evidence-based health service, that meet the diverse needs of prisoners.” The can be deployed on invitation of principals there have been two successful pilots Analysis of the Victorian Medically government response committed an or at the direction of SA Police and used to conducted in Australia, and that pill testing Supervised Injecting Centre showed that in additional $42.5 million to reduce sniff lockers, bags and corridors. If is supported by numerous peak bodies the first year of operation, from 30 June methamphetamine use and harms in WA, successful it will be rolled out further (May). including the Australian Medical Association, 2018 to 30 June 2019, there were: including: the Royal College of General Practitioners, • 2,908 registered clients using the • $4.8 million for a new 10-bed crisis Minister for Health and Wellbeing was asked service centre (medical withdrawal beds) about pill testing at festivals and stated the the Rural Doctors Association of Australia, the Public Health Association of Australia • 61,823 visits including a supervised to provide safe places for SA Marshall Liberal government does not injection individuals and families in crisis; support pill testing at events. He noted they and Community Legal Centres Tasmania. It further called on the government to explore • 1,232 overdoses safely managed • $2.3 million for 4 new detox beds continue to monitor evidence-based by staff inside the MSIR. in the Kimberley; research from around the world and are how a trial could be conducted in Tasmania over the 2019-2020 summer festival • Staff also provided: • $9.2 million for specialist AOD committed to implementing alternative • 5,082 on-site services to registered youth services in the Kimberley strategies that can improve safety and season. The motion was negated with 4 votes for and 8 votes against (Aug 13). clients. This includes health including involving resi rehab, reduce adverse health outcomes such as via promotion in relation to injecting, detox and post-rehab support; the SA safer music event guidelines and the Tasmanian Government reaffirmed it would and on-the-spot health and social • $20.1 million for the North West use of chill out areas, but do not believe not support a trial of pill testing at support. Drug and Alcohol Support Program that the safety of these events would be Tasmanian music festivals, arguing ‘there is • 1,393 referrals to co-located for increased counselling and other enhanced by pill testing (16 May). no safe use of any illicit drug and it’s services and clinics, and external treatment options in the Pilbara, Motion against pill testing at events reckless to suggest otherwise. The idea that services. This provides a gateway Kimberley & Gascoyne regions; debated. This (a) acknowledged the a testing service can indicate that an illegal to supports including alcohol and • $1.5 million to expand NPS in government's strong focus on preventing drug is free of certain contaminants sends a other drug treatment, primary regional areas inc Bunbury; the uptake of illicit drug use, reducing the very mixed and risky message’ (Nov). care, oral health, blood-borne • $1.05 million for AOD education of harmful effects of licit and illicit drugs and virus treatment, mental health at-risk students; offering pathways out of harmful drug use; support, housing and • $631,000 to expand a transitional (b) supports the safer music event homelessness services and legal housing and support program; guidelines to improve safety and reduce support (Jun). • $200,000 to extend a mental harms at events and multiple steps in that Two AOD outreach workers employed by health police co-response model in to reduce harm and (c) supported the state North Richmond Community Health centre regional areas (7 May). government's position against pill testing at were arrested over drug trafficking. Media New discussion paper “Managing public events. The motion was carried (Jun). reports wrongly claimed the workers worked health risks at events in WA” released by 7th report of the National Wastewater Drug at the North Richmond Community Health WA Health for public discussion and Monitoring Program released and showed SA supervised injecting room incident (Oct 24). feedback. This notes that events (e.g. had the highest average capital city Heated media debate about the North festivals) are a vital part of WA life and consumption of methylamphetamine, and Richmond Community Health argued the culture, but that events in WA are currently together with Qld the highest average supervised injecting centre had become a managed through Public Buildings regional consumption of cannabis, and the honeypot for drug dealing or other criminal Regulations. WA Health thus proposed to highest average regional consumption of update regulations to ensure public health Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 70 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia fentanyl in the country (Jun). history and calls to relocate the centre risks e.g. AOD use are appropriately New research released: “Spatio‐temporal and/or shut it down. Of note: The Victorian planned for and managed at future events assessment of illicit drug use at large scale: Shadow Minister for Police and Community through the use of new, event-specific evidence from 7 years of international Safety David Southwick argued the arrests regulations under the Public Health Act, with wastewater monitoring.” This compared had proven this point: 'In 15 months, Daniel updated events guidelines about key issues wastewater monitoring over 7 years (2011 Andrews has turned a safe community including provisions for first aid planning to 2017) across 120 cities in 37 countries health centre with a thriving maternal and (Mar). and showed that of them Adelaide had the child service into a drug-dealing hotspot.' A tonne of cocaine and ecstasy were seized highest recorded levels of Media noted some residents wanted the and foreign nations arrested after a yacht methamphetamine, followed by Seattle supervised injecting centre moved, whilst hit a reef and ran aground in the Abrolhos (Oct). others wanted it shut down (Oct). Islands off the Mid-West coast of WA (near The Victorian Government maintained its Geraldton). Two foreign nationals a 51-year- support for the MSIR's two-year trial, which old French national and a 34-year-old will continue with Dr Nico Clark as its English man were arrested. A 45-year-old Medical Director. The Victorian Government US man and a 35-year-old UK man were commissioned an independent review of the subsequently arrested in the Perth CBD AOD Program at NRCH (Oct). (Sep). Victoria ambulance union calls for back of The WA Select Committee into Alternative house pill testing at festivals - whereby any Approaches to Reducing Illicit Drug Use and drugs confiscated by police would be tested its Effects on the Community released their and alerts issued on social media (Nov). report: “Help not handcuffs.” This noted Melbourne City Council provided in principal people who use drugs may avoid criminal support for a pill testing trial at festivals and penalties through the WA Police Force Drug offered to deliver a pilot in their municipality Diversion Program, which diverts low-level (Nov). offenders to drug education sessions. Drug Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances diversion is a cost-effective option for Amendment (Pill Testing Pilot for Drug Harm reducing imprisonment and increasing Reduction) Bill 2019 debated as a private treatment uptake, but that strict eligibility members bill from the Greens and Reason criteria and other limitations mean Western Party. The bill proposed to establish a new Australians are the least likely in the country legislative scheme to allow for the licensing to be diverted from prosecution for minor and operation of one mobile drug-checking drug offences. The Committee found that a service, and the licence and operation of number of approaches used within Australia one fixed premises drug-checking service as and internationally have successfully a two-year pilot. On introducing the bill it reduced drug-related harms by shifting was noted that the evidence of trials in policy priorities from prohibition towards Canberra and around the world through over health, prevention and harm reduction. Key 20 years of operation of such services has recommendations: shown that drug checking services are • That the WA Government commit successful in educating clients about the to defining and treating drug use as risks of drug taking, and in reducing drug a health and social issue; taking and drug-related deaths, and the • That the Mental Health Commission overwhelming evidence of support from and Western Australia Police Force agencies like the AMA and NSW Coroner for work together to investigate, such services. It noted the bill would provide develop and implement either a robust framework to ensure access to a) Option 1—an expanded Police Drug quality compositional testing and timely Diversion Program or Option 2 – information e.g. about purity levels, b) decriminalization; evidence based information about the likely • That current drug trafficking effects of consuming the drug, including threshold limits giving rise to intent potentially fatal risks, and information about to supply be reviewed; associated drug related harms such as • That the WA drug court be dehydration, heatstroke and risks of extended to regional WA; combining substances e.g. alcohol and • That funding for treatment and Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 71 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia mdma and c) referral pathways to AOD and harm reduction services be mental health services. It further noted the increased in line with projected use of on site and off-site services was demand; deliberate in recognition that drug use is not • That demand for a drug confined to major summer festivals (Nov consumption room in Perth be 13). ascertained; An independent review on the North • That strategies to optimize safety Richmond Community Health AOD Program at music festivals be considered, released, with 10 recommendations. This including trial of a drug checking included strengthening governance service (Nov). arrangements, relocating the AOD outreach services within North Richmond Community Health until the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre trial is completed (Dec).

2018 Coronial Inquiry into the death of Lewis Australian Medical Association Tasmanian Vic Parliamentary Report on Drug Law Wandoo Rehabilitation Prison – the first McPherson aged 18 found the police missed President Stuart Day announced that pill Reform released. This noted the importance alcohol and drug treatment prison for multiple opportunities to prevent the testing should be trailed in Tasmania, noting of a health response to illicit drugs, and women opened. This is a first in WA and in shooting. The gunman, Liam Humbles, who it provides an opportunity for early ongoing difficulties in accessing medical Australia. Unlike other facilities, it offers was aged 17, was intoxicated by alcohol and intervention and for trained medical cannabis, and gaps and inequity in police dedicated, intensive trauma-informed drugs at the time and had been given five professionals to provide information to drug diversion across Victoria, due in part to treatment within a therapeutic community, prior drug diversions, including at least one festival attendees (May). the discretionary nature of programs. The that is supported via multi-disciplinary case- instance (his fourth diversion) where police report outlined 50 recommendations, management to reduce addiction, improve had received information that Humbles was including that the Vic Government a) work mental and physical health and reduce re- 2017-2018 Review of Tasmanian Opioid dealing in cannabis and ‘pills’ and that he with the Cth to improve patient access to offending (Aug). Pharmacotherapy Program (TOPP) Policy carried a firearm, at least inferentially, in medicinal cannabis products; b) remove the and Clinical Standards released (Jun). connection with that activity. The deputy prohibition of peer distribution of sterile Western Australian Alcohol and Drug coroner found that police investigations into needles and syringes; c) review threshold Interagency Strategy 2018-2022 released. information they had received about Proposed pill testing legislation to allow amounts for drug quantities to appropriately This was developed through firstly Humbles was "flawed and inadequate": 'The testing of drugs at music festivals was distinguish between drug traffickers and evaluation and reviews of the Drug and issuing of a drug diversion to Humbles on debated in Parliament. It was voted down by people who possess illicit substances for Alcohol Interagency Strategy 2011-2015 this occasion was inappropriate and not in both the Liberal and Labor parties (Nov). personal use; d) maintain current drug and drug and alcohol trends and accordance with SAPOL General Order - offences in law but treat personal use and consultation with key stakeholders, the community and the WA Drug and Alcohol Drug Diversion having regard to the New changes commenced to Tasmanian possession as a health issue by exploring Strategic Senior Officers’ Group. suspicion that he was trafficking in roadside drug testing – with a switch to oral alternative models such as the Portuguese Consultation included targeted consultation cannabis." Key recommendations: fluid testing of drivers, instead of a decriminalisation or codifying police drug with key stakeholders and peak bodies (Dec • that the drug diversion process in requirement to take all drivers to hospital to diversion to ensure all offenders are offered 2016 to Feb 2017), statewide consultation relation to children be re-evaluated in obtain blood samples. This removed a a drug diversion; e) establish an early (Aug 2017) and an online survey (Aug its entirety. previous inconsistency in practice with most warning system; and f) commission an independent evaluation of the use of drug 2017). • that there be a limit to the number of other states and territories (3 Dec). detection dogs at music festivals and other drug diversions that a child may public spaces. Report also noted the Phase one of consultation on the draft undergo (and that the stipulation within increasing development of cannabis Western Australian Mental Health, Alcohol both the PDDI and SAPOL General regulatory models for adult use across the and Other Drug Accommodation and Order – Drug Diversion that there is no globe and recommended continued Support Strategy 2018-2025 completed. limit to the number of diversions that a monitoring of the outcomes of international This will be the first WA framework for the child can undergo be deleted) developments in regulated supply of development of appropriate accommodation • that the maximum monetary penalty for cannabis (Mar). and support for people with severe mental the offences of possession, smoking and health issues and/or mild, moderate and The Victorian Government committed consumption of cannabis, cannabis severe alcohol and other drug issues. Phase $100.45 million in the 2018-2019 Budget resin and cannabis oil be increased from one of the consultation occurred from March over four years to establish new ‘emergency $500 to a figure that reflects the 2016 until July 2018, and involved 50 NGO, department hubs’ in six Melbourne hospitals deleterious effects that the consumption peak body and government agencies and - Monash Medical Centre, St Vincent’s, the of those substances can have on the more than 30 consumer consultants, carers Royal Melbourne, Geelong, Sunshine and Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 72 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia individual, especially the young (Feb). Frankston Hospitals - to better support and and family members. Key issues highlighted SA Police investigation revealed disturbing respond to people experiencing a crisis in the consultation included a) that access to level of ‘squalor’ in Murray Bridge and that related to their mental health or substance safe and affordable housing is at a crisis children as young as 11 were using ice: use. Introduced post the increasing numbers point in WA, b) that this has fueled “What we found was a really disturbing level of people presenting at emergency significant wait times (5 to 7 years), c) of squalor and lifestyles well below what you departments for repeat visits, the hubs are specific gaps in housing and support in rural would consider Australia, as a free and rich designed to provide targeted assessments and remote locations and for youth and country, should actually be tolerating (Feb). and specialist care from medical, mental service access barriers for people who have health, and social work professionals and been homeless for a long time, and d) high Liberal Government elected on platform of a where needed overnight stays (Jun). incidence of evictions of people with mental ‘war on drugs’, including provisions to send health and AOD issues from public housing, drug detection dogs into schools and North Richmond Community Health supervised injecting room opened lead by Dr private rental and community housing. The toughening penalties for cannabis consultation further highlighted the need to possession (Mar). Nico Clark as its Medical Director. In its first week of operation, the medically supervised not only increase housing stock and linkages Methamphetamine super-lab located in injecting room saw over 400 visits and staff between accommodation and support Morphett Vale in Adelaide’s south with 120 responded to 12 overdoses (Jun 30). services but also addressing stigma and kilograms of powder — suspected of being discrimination of people with MH and AOD methamphetamine — and 11 kilograms of Vic Government response to drug law issues (Jul). what police believe to be crystal reform inquiry released. Concluded that a methamphetamine or "ice’ (2 Oct). more health approach is needed to illicit A bipartisan Legislative Council drugs, and they were working to streamline Parliamentary Select Committee, Chaired by Industrial sized methamphetamine super-lab access to medical cannabis and to uncovered on Croydon, in Adelaide's north- Hon. Alison Xamon MLC was established to “strengthen” the Vic Police drug diversion conduct an Inquiry into alternate west - the biggest methamphetamine lab in program (Aug). SA’s history. Three men (47-year-old Troy approaches to reducing illicit drug use and Alviti, 58-year-old Mark Middleton and 39- Reason Party MP Fiona Patten proposed at its effects on the community, specifically to year-old Nicholas Wardle) were arrested. the Victorian election to legalise, regulate inquire into and report on: The lab housed enough chemicals to make and tax recreational cannabis for adults • other Australian state and 127kg pure methamphetamine = $20 aged 18 and over and introduction of strict international approaches (including million worth of the drug (29 Oct). product safety and product quality Portugal) to reducing harm from requirements. Costings from the illicit drug use; Statutes Amendment (Drug Offences) Bill Parliamentary Budget Office estimated this • a comparison of effectiveness and 2018 issued by Government in the goal of would increase the state’s budget by $204.6 costs to the community of drug increasing penalties for cannabis possession. million over the forward estimates (Dec). The initial bill proposed reintroducing the related laws between WA and other option of imprisonment for people who did jurisdictions; & not receive a cannabis expiation notice and • the applicability of alternative increasing the maximum fine from $200 to approaches (Oct 17). $2000. The option of imprisonment was removed post a public backlash, albeit not The Methamphetamine Action Plan (MAP) the larger fine (Nov). Taskforce Final Report released. This Statutes Amendment (Drug Offences) Act included 57 recommendations for 2018 adopted. This limited the number of government relating to education, drug diversions in the PDDI before a person intervention, treatment and support must be charged with an offence from services, reducing harm and use, meeting unlimited to 2 in a 4-year period. This regional needs, pathways following applied to both youth and adults (Nov). treatment, cross-sector collaboration and evaluation. Specific recommendations The Cth Department of Health announced a included: $20 million boost for SA drug and alcohol • Work to reduce the stigma treatment services in regional and rural associated with methamphetamine use; areas, including Ceduna; Port Augusta; • Work with AOD service providers to Fleurieu Peninsula; Peterborough and Mid establish a centralised waitlist database to North; Murray Bridge; Playford; Port better identify & utilise existing treatment Adelaide; and Onkaparinga. This was capacity; particularly targeted at methamphetamine • Establish an appropriate alternative

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 73 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia (Nov). crisis intervention response that would Nine people arrested after nine-month provide a short term place for investigation into trafficking of methamphetamine users when they are in methamphetamine in Murray Bridge (Dec). crisis that will keep them, their families and the community safe; • Mandate a minimum level of AOD education in all schools. • Propose to the Ministerial Forum on Alcohol and Drugs that future Cth Government resources allocated to address methamphetamine use should be apportioned based on the relative 'need' or magnitude of the problem in each state; • Ensure that all persons in custody, including remanded and sentenced offenders, are assessed for AOD use, including methamphetamine, and are provided with intervention and treatment to meet the needs identified • Introduce needle and syringe exchange programs in WA prisons (26 Nov).

Three people died (a 21-year-old man, who had been at the Metro City nightclub, and two women aged 23 and 25) on 7 December and there were a further 91 non-fatal overdoses between 4 and 7 December which were suspected to be due to GHB. This is the largest number of overdoses in Perth since the 1990s heroin epidemic, leading WA Police to issue a warning that “there is a bad batch of drugs out there” (Dec 9). 2017 SA Ministerial Crystal Methamphetamine 22-year-old Jacob Langford died of multi- New funding announced in 2017-2018 Taskforce. Established due to rapid and drug toxicity (including amyl nitrate) at the budget to undertake consultation, analysis continued growth of ice use and harms, Rainbow Serpent music festival (Jan). and modelling about drug and alcohol evidenced by wastewater analysis showing Port Phillip Council called on the Victorian service needs in the Kimberley in light of consumption of methamphetamine had Government to immediately legislate to government commitments to expand service tripled in the last 4 years. The taskforce allow and fund pilot pill testing facilities at provision in the region (Jun). held six community forums: Mawson Lakes; “consenting clubs, festivals and dance Whyalla; Murray Bridge; Mount Gambier; 1.2 tonne of methamphetamine - Australia’s parties in the City of Port Phillip to minimise biggest methamphetamine seizure was Port Pirie; McLaren Vale as well as an online the harms associated with illicit drugs” (Feb survey (Feb). seized at the Geraldton port, WA. Eight men 1). were also arrested. The vessel was SA Ministerial Crystal Methamphetamine Inquiry into Drug Law Reform undertaken transporting drugs manufactured in China Taskforce report released. Noted that by the Victorian Law Reform, Road and that had been transported by a Chinese methamphetamine use tends to be higher in Community Safety Committee. This "mother ship" then onto the smaller marine SA than other parts of the country but that commenced in Feb 2017 and ran until March vessel Valkoista. The drugs were alleged to there is large variance e.g. some regional 2018. The terms of reference were to be destined for the east coast of Australia communities have much lower than usual inquire into, consider and report, on: 1. The (Sep). rates. Also noted 60% users are occasional effectiveness of laws, procedures and who don’t need treatment but could benefit regulations relating to illicit and synthetic from peer education, 25% regular who could drugs and the misuse of prescription benefit from brief interventions (outpatient medication in minimising drug-related counselling) and 15% are dependent where health, social and economic harm; and 2. intensive treatment is recommended. Key The practice of other Australian states and

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 74 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia recommendations: 1) need for a stepped territories and overseas jurisdictions and approach to treatment provision– not just their approach to drug law reform and how more residential rehabilitation – and for other positive reforms could be adopted into services close to homes and support Victorian law. The Committee received 231 networks, 2) need to better support submissions from a diverse range of experts families, 3) need to increase capacity and stakeholders working in various areas of building e.g. sports programs and drug policy and law reform, including community organisations, 4) need to better advocacy groups, not-for-profit reduce stigma to improve service access organisations, the alcohol and other drug and 5) need to improve supply reduction treatment sector and other service through increased law enforcement powers providers, government departments, health and resources (Feb). and legal professionals, medical and health SA Gov launched an $8 million Illicit Drug peak bodies, community legal centres, Action Plan to ‘stop the hurt’ Illicit caused by research institutes, academics as well as crystal methamphetamine. Main priority – individual members of the community. The expanding drug treatment – mainly Committee also held nine days of public counselling – 50% increase in outpatient hearings in Melbourne and Sydney, travelled spots - and 12 new residential rehab beds– to Wellington, New Zealand and had an $3.6 million. Other strategies: international study tour of Geneva, • Additional drug dogs $0.549m Switzerland; Lisbon, Portugal; London, • Additional resourcing for family United Kingdom; Vancouver, Canada; support groups $0.560m Denver and Sacramento, United States of • Supporting employers to better America (Mar). respond to substance abuse in the Melbourne Drug Court opened: workplace $0.498m complementing the 15 year old Dandenong • Assisting community organisations drug court with a capacity of 170 (cf 70 in to respond to ice abuse issues Dandenong) (Mar). $0.3m • Assisting grass roots sporting clubs Victorian Alcohol and Drug Collection $0.3m (VADC) commenced as the new data • Additional TruNarc electronic drug collection specification for all AOD treatment testing implements $0.287m providers in Victoria, with implementation • Dob in a dealer campaign $0.2m over an 18-month period. In recognition of (Jun) the need to reduce administrative burdens the VDAC has approximately 80 data elements - less than half the elements in the current Alcohol and Drug Information System (ADIS) collection. VDAC is thus designed to reduce administration burdens, better reflect current service delivery, align with national minimum data set reporting requirements, enable monthly reporting and increased ease of data sharing (Mar). 903kg of methamphetamine seized, hidden in a shipment of wooden floorboards from China (Apr). New report released by the Penington Institute: “Not just naloxone: Insights into emerging models to reduce drug harms.” The report was commissioned by the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services to examine and report on practical strategies to respond to an overdose; the role of peer workers and peer-led models in harm reduction and related areas, such as Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 75 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia behavioural health; and other models and approaches that could be implemented in Victoria to reduce drug-related harms particularly overdose (Jul). The Victorian Government released the “Victorian Drug Rehabilitation Plan: New Action to help save Victorian Lives” in response to an escalation in illicit drug-related death (including a near doubling in the number of deaths since 2012). This provided $87 million to address drug harms. Key measures included: • Provision of an additional 100 residential rehabilitation beds across the state (to treat up to 400 extra people per year) • Trial of a medically supervised injecting room at North Richmond Community Health • Increased brokerage for people and families trying to locate drug treatment services (Oct). Victorian Parliament passed legislation for a two-year trial of a medically supervised injecting room, to be operated by medical practitioners at North Richmond Community Health. The North Richmond Community Health supervised injecting room is modelled on the successful centre at Sydney’s Kings Cross and will undergo an independent evaluation (19 Dec).

2016 The SA Government issued a public health The Minister for Corrections, Dr Vanessa Access to Medicinal Cannabis Act 2016 WA Government announced a new 2016 warning following spate of heroin-related Goodwin, launched ‘Breaking the Cycle- A adopted. This included a state-based “Western Australian Meth Strategy”. Key overdose deaths: 10 deaths, 8 of which Safer Community: Strategies for Improving scheme to allow the lawful cultivation and steps include: were due to heroin alone and two to heroin the Throughcare for Offenders 2016-2020’. manufacture of medicinal cannabis products • Additional funding and support to and fentanyl (Aug). Key goals in relation to AOD were: for use by a limited cohort of patients with expand the WA Police meth teams Criminal Assets Confiscation (Prescribed • to increase access to withdrawal, drug particular medical conditions and symptoms to target methamphetamine Drug Offenders) Amendment Act 2016 treatment and abstinence units; & (to be prescribed in regulation at a later supply; adopted. The act, the declared drug • to implement a Tasmanian Prison date). Children with severe intractable • 52 extra dedicated rehabilitation trafficker law, targets repeat offenders and Service Drug and Alcohol Strategy epilepsy will be given the first access to spaces for methamphetamine; allows for the confiscation of all of a (Aug). medicinal cannabis products in early 2017 (26 Apr). • A pilot specialist meth clinic to declared drug trafficker’s property, whether Premier Will Hodgman and the Minister for provide rapid assessment, early or not established as lawfully acquired and Health Michael Ferguson announced that Victorian Government announced a new intervention and treatment whether or not there is any proof about the specialist medical practitioners would be funding package ($28.5 million) to support including outpatient withdrawal property. Assets and property can be able to prescribe medicinal cannabis for the roll out of medical cannabis including: within the Next Step Drug and restrained pending prosecution of matters people with serious or chronic illnesses in • the establishment of an Office of Alcohol Service in East Perth. before the court. A dealer will be declared a Tasmania from 2017, via a Controlled Medicinal Cannabis to oversee • A new Ice Helpline linking directly prescribed drug offender if found guilty of Access Scheme (CAS). Key details of the manufacturing and all clinical to its existing alcohol and other three indictable drug offences over ten years scheme: aspects of the medicinal cannabis drug support line; & – excluding time in jail – or found guilty of • There will be no limit on diseases framework and an Independent • Proposed legislation for involuntary one offence involving trafficking a treatable; Medical Advisory Committee; commercial quantity e.g. 500g of drug treatment (May). • The laws on cannabis use will not be • a new medical cannabis cultivation amphetamine or 2.5kg of cannabis. A trawler was seized off the coast of Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 76 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia Confiscated assets will be paid into a changed; but the CAS will allow access trial, and further product Geraldton WA in connection with a 182kg Rehabilitation Fund and used to fund to medical cannabis products grown development and the development seizure of ice, transported by a Chinese and programs and facilities for the benefit of lawfully under Commonwealth licenses; of clinical, public and Malaysian syndicate (May). victims, offenders and other crime- • Access will be limited to specialist manufacturing guidance material Wastewater analysis of methamphetamine prevention initiatives (Aug). medical practitioners: not all general • research grants to build the levels in Perth, Bunbury and Geraldton South Australian Alcohol and Other Drug practitioners. It will thus limit access to evidence base for medicinal showed that about 1.6 kilograms of Strategy 2017-2021 released (Nov). treatment of complex medical cannabis; & methamphetamine was being consumed in SA Police figures showed that 5569 drivers conditions where the patient is under • the establishment of a hardship the metropolitan area each week, or 1.6 returned a positive drug test 2015-16 in SA the care of a medical specialist; fund to help make medicinal tonnes annually. It further showed levels – almost as many as the 5817 caught over • Expert panel will assess applications cannabis more affordable for were highest in Bunbury: with levels that the 0.05 blood-alcohol limit, and that since from doctors; & parents doing it tough (Apr). were double that seen in Perth and Geraldton (Oct). 2010-11, drug-driving detections have more • Government will work with business to AOD Data Collection Redevelopment Project than tripled from 1832, while the number of produce products locally (Aug). commenced with goal to: Develop new data Misuse of Drugs Amendment (Search positive alcohol tests has almost halved Tasmanian Police argued that the popularity requirements for the AOD sector to ensure Powers) Act 2016 adopted, enabling new from 10,072 (Dec). of ‘ice’ / methamphetamine has fueled an that the department has the necessary data search powers to target known drug transit SA Road Safety Minister Peter Malinauskas increase in drug mules bringing to fulfil its function as system manager, as routes in rural/regional areas. Specifically it announced tough new laws will be methamphetamine into Tasmania. This is well as to identify a more efficient and user gives police powers to declare a designated introduced for drug driving: including for a driven by the absence of local manufacture friendly method for data submission, area of up to 5 square kilometres a “a drug first offence an automatic driver’s license of the drug (Sep). minimise the data collection burden on detection area” if there reasonable grounds service providers and ensure data collection to suspect that the area is being used or is suspension of three or six months (instead Tasmanian Police Minister Rene Hidding flexibility over time to meet emerging policy likely to be used for the transportation of of the current penalty excludes license promised to investigate having a register for suspension for a first offence), a minimum and funding initiatives (Jun). prohibited drugs, prohibited plants or people accessing medicinal cannabis to controlled precursors and to conduct a of 12 months suspension for a second Medical Advisory Committee on Medicinal quarantine them from prosecution (Oct). search of trucks and vehicles in that area for offence and a minimum of 24 months Cannabis (the Committee) established, a period of up to 14 days (Nov). suspension for a third offence (Dec). chaired by Professor James Alexander Angus AO, to advise on matters including product The WA Government announced that from 1 availability (which medicinal cannabis November 2016 it will be legal for medical products should be approved medicinal cannabis to be grown in WA and for a doctor

cannabis products), patient eligibility and to prescribe, and a pharmacist to dispense, other clinical matters (Oct). medicinal cannabis. This is in line with new 2016-17 Victorian State Budget provided a Cth laws enabling access to medical $57.6 million in new funds to respond to ice cannabis, via the Narcotic Drugs and other drugs. Key funds included: Amendment Act 2016. Any doctor wishing to prescribe medicinal cannabis would need • $5.5 million for further training and support for frontline workers approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration and an expert advisory • $6 million for a new alcohol and other drugs residential committee (Cannabis-Based Product rehabilitation service in the Advisory Committee), in the WA Department Grampians area, servicing the of Health. Obtaining approval will require a Ballarat community written application including: • $10 million for renewal of mental • prescriber and patient details health and AOD facilities • specific details of the desired therapy, • $32 million to expand the Drug including name and source of product, Court of Victoria intended dose etc. • $3.8 million over four years for the • indication for treatment Mother and Baby residential • relevant patient medical and medication withdrawal unit. (Apr 27). history, including details of current and Penington Institute released a new report: past treatments “Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2016.” • evidence of written informed consent This analysed overdose deaths from 2004 from the patient. until 2014 and showed: In WA only a pharmacist will be able to • Deaths due to accidental overdose dispense medicinal cannabis, with supply grew substantially from 705 to from any other means remaining illegal Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 77 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia 1,137 between 2004 and 2014: a (Nov). 61% increase. • Contrary to stereotypes Australians aged 40-49 are the most likely to die of a drug overdose. • Large increases in overdose deaths in rural and regional are driving the overall increase. • WA was the worst state for overdose deaths per capita with 5.8 per 100,000 in 2014 followed by NSW with 5.1 per 100,000 (Jul). The Victorian Government announced it would invest in a peer-led networks trial across six hotspot areas for overdose, including Brimbank/Maribyrnong, Greater Dandenong, Greater Geelong, the City of Melbourne, Port Phillip and the City of Yarra, as a means to strengthen and improve the scope for peer education in Victoria (Aug 31). New residential withdrawal unit for mothers with babies opened: providing a tailored withdrawal services and extended support (Nov). 2015 19-year-old Stefan Woodward fatally Victorian Government established the WA Minister for Mental Health Helen Morton overdosed, following collapsing at the Department of Health & Human Services announced that the Government is spending Stereosonic music festival in Adelaide, and (DHHS): bringing together the former an extra $84M in 2015 on drug and alcohol 22 others were hospitalised for AOD issues Department of Health, former Department services (Feb). (Nov). of Human Services and Sport and WA Police Minister Liza Harvey announced a Senator Nick Xenophon called for an inquest Recreation Victoria. (Jan 1). joint State and Federal police task force to into deaths at Sterosonic music festival Attorney-General Martin Pakula appointed address WA’s methamphetamine trade (including that in NSW and that in SA): lawyer Dr Ian Freckelton, QC, as Special (Feb). including the responsibility of the Commissioner to the Victorian Law Reform Two Comanchero OMCG charged with organisers, the role of police and health Commission’s review into the use of methamphetamine trafficking after police professionals and also any warnings that medicinal cannabis (Jan). seized almost 8KG of methamphetamine should have been given (Dec). Dr Ian Freckelton, QC held nine public (Feb). SA Health Minister Jack Snelling announced consultations in metropolitan and regional The Mental Health Commission and the Drug new measures may be introduced at music Victoria about medical cannabis and and Alcohol Office amalgamated on 1 July, festivals in a bid to prevent further drug- released an issues paper that garnered 99 2015. The joined organisation is called the related deaths: including mandatory submissions about: Mental Health Commission (Jul). warnings over public address systems about • How to define the exceptional WA Police launched a “Meth Enforcement the dangers of illicit drugs at such festivals circumstances in which a person on days of extreme heat, and better drug Action Plan” to target the supply of should be allowed to use medicinal methamphetamine in the communities. Key education campaigns. But he ruled out pill cannabis testing as this could send the wrong actions: • How the law could be amended to message (Dec). • meth transport teams that are enable patients to obtain medicinal deployed to key transport hubs, to cannabis while continuing to conduct searches of vehicles, truck, prevent unauthorised access (Mar). trains and aircraft entering WA; Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews released a • establishment of dedicated meth new Victorian Ice Action Plan, including teams in organised crime squads, $45.5 in expenditure. Measures included: targeted at high level dealers; Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 78 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia • $18 million to expand drug • an intelligence Meth Desk to treatment and rehabilitation support the meth teams; • $1.8 million in additional • joint agency teams with the investment for NSPs Australian Crime Commission $4.5 million to assist the Victoria • specifically targeting meth money Police’s Forensic Drug Branch in trails (Aug). profiling clandestine drug labs • $15 million for new drug and booze WA Government announced it would pilot buses (Mar). wastewater testing of methamphetamine in three metropolitan wastewater plants to The Victorian Law Reform Commission's provide new insight into the extent of use Medicinal Cannabis report was tabled in (Aug). Parliament with the government accepting all 42 recommendations, two accepted in A 'one stop shop' for alcohol and drug principle. It announced that it would legalise treatment opened in Joondalup to cater for access to medicinal cannabis in exceptional the region's growing population after a circumstances from 2017 (Oct 6). move to larger premises by the North Metropolitan Community Alcohol and Drug Victorian Parliament's Law Reform, Road Service (Sep). and Community Safety Committee Inquiry established into illicit and synthetic drugs Misuse of Drugs Amendment (Psychoactive and prescription medication. Terms of Substances) Act 2015 adopted (Oct). This reference included assessing: act sought to close a regulatory gap that • the effectiveness of drug treatment had enabled new and emerging programs in Victoria; psychoactive substances to be sold because • the effectiveness of Victorian they have not been captured by or regulated government investment into illicit via existing legislation. It banned the sale, drug supply reduction, demand supply, manufacture, advertising and reduction and harm reduction promotion of any psychoactive substance strategies and programs; and any substance that purported to have a • the effectiveness of drug detection psychoactive effect unless it is approved programs including roadside through existing legislation or regulation. It testing and deployment of drug further provided WA Police with the power detection activities at events; to seize and destroy any substance that has, • the effectiveness of laws and or is said to have, a psychoactive effect; regulations relating to illicit and and for penalties of up to $48,000 or four synthetic drugs; and years prison to be applied. The new powers • practices of other Australian states commenced 18 Nov 2015 (Oct). and territories and overseas The Western Australian Mental Health, jurisdictions and their approach to Alcohol and Other Drug Services Plan 2015- drug law reform and how other 2025 released. The plan outlines a 10 year positive reforms could be adopted roadmap to reshape mental health, alcohol to Victorian law (Nov). and other drug services in WA (including in correctional settings) including the investment required to achieve the optimal mix and level of mental health, alcohol and other drug services in the short (by the end of 2017), medium (by the end of 2020) and long term (by the end of 2025) to best meet the identified needs of the population. The plan was developed by the Mental Health Commission, the former Drug and Alcohol Office, with the input from the Department of Health and Department of Corrective Services, stakeholders, consumers, carers and families, expert reference groups and

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 79 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia sector organisations. Key areas for AOD include: • To expand prevention strategies to prevent and delay the onset of AOD use, leading to savings in treatment costs • Improving continuum of care and appropriate mix of services to improve patient flow and reduce waiting lists and relapse • Treatment services being more accessible, with a greater reach of services across the State: particularly in regional areas (Dec). 2014 South Australian police detect largest known Tasmania elected a Liberal majority Yarra City Council proposed trial of first WA Police Organised Crime Squad arrested drug lab in state. The lab detected in Walker Government, following Labor Party rule for a needle and syringe vending machines in 17 people and seized $20 million worth of Flats included an industrial pill press, 60L period of 16 years. Key policy platforms: Victoria (Jan). drugs and assets following a 10 month chemicals and over 100,000 ecstasy pills • To abolish suspended sentences, The Victorian Minister for Mental Health, investigation into a drug ring operating worth approximately $30m (Feb). including for serious drug offences; Mary Wooldridge, backed needle syringe across WA, SA and NSW. It is alleged the SA Labor party re-elected with support of • To break the cycle of youth crime; vending machine trial in Victoria: saying too network used a WA based trucking company Independent MP Geoff Brock (Mar). • To establish a serious and organised many people were sharing syringes & the to transport and distribute cannabis and crime squad in the Tasmania Police Government was committed to stopping the methylamphetamine into WA (Jan). (Mar). spread of blood-borne viruses (Jan). New prevention guidelines adopted: Alcohol Legislative Council Sessional Committee Herald Sun campaigned against vending and other Drug Prevention Guidelines 2014 - Government Administration commenced machines in Victoria: e.g. “Taking a jab in a guide to support professionals leading in a parliamentary inquiry into “Legalized the dark” (Feb). the area of AOD prevention (Feb). medicinal cannabis”. Terms of reference Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Sector peak bodies launched a new ‘Green included focus on: 1) efficacy and safety of Book’ directory listing alcohol and other natural botanical medicinal cannabis Amendment Act 2014 adopted. This extended the meaning of drug of drug, as well as community mental health flower and extracted cannabinoids for services (Feb). medical purposes; 2) legal implications and dependence to include analogues of certain barriers to growing and commercialisation of drugs, and added to Schedule 11 five Alcohol and Drug Authority Amendment Bill cannabis flower and extracted cannabinoids classes of synthetic cannabinoids, as well as 2014 introduced. Aim: amalgamation of the in Tasmania; and 3) the potential impact on five specific synthetic cannabinoids and 21 Mental Health Commission and the Western agricultural or other sectors within Tasmania other synthetic substances such as NBOMe, Australian Drug and Alcohol Office, under (Jul). 2-CB and DMAA (Feb). the new name “Mental Health Commission” (May). Interim report released on parliamentary Attorney-General Robert Clark introduced inquiry into legalisation of medical cannabis Sentencing Amendment (Baseline An Organised Crime Squad operation led to in Tasmania. Key conclusions: Sentences) Bill 2014, to increase baseline/ seizure of more than $8M worth of • Current legislation does not reflect median sentences for a range of indictable methamphetamine in a series of raids at the reality that a lot of people use offences, including a new median sentence Kewdale, Munster and Bibra Lake and arrest cannabis for medical purposes. for trafficking in a large commercial quantity of 6 people (May). • The unregulated environment of 14 years imprisonment (up from 7 years 33 additional new psychoactive substances means there is no quality control imprisonment) (Apr). were listed in Schedule 9 of the Poisons Act • Tasmania has the capacity and Penington Institute established, led by 1964. Included NBOMe & 4-MEC (Jun). expertise to extract pure Professor David Penington (Apr). A joint operation between the Australian cannabinoids to produce a high Turning Point and Ambulance Victoria report Federal Police, Western Australia Police, the quality pharmaceutical product showed methamphetamine related Australian Crime Commission and Australian Key recommendations: ambulance call-outs increased in Customs and Border Protection led to the • The government immediately metropolitan Melbourne from 107 in 2008- largest seizure of methamphetamine in WA: introduce legislation to protect 09 to 1112 in 2011-12 (May). 90kg. Six men were also arrested (Oct). individuals who use medicinal A Family Drug Treatment Court opened in WA Mental Health, Alcohol and other Drug cannabis from criminal charge Broadmeadows: the first in Australia. This Services Plan 2015-2025 launched for • The government develops a Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 80 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia legislative framework to enable the aims to help parents to stop using drugs and consultation (until 30 March 2015). The plan medical use of cannabis alcohol, and to promote family reunification, was informed by evidence based national • The government engages with by diverting parents from a normal court to modelling tools (the National Mental Health companies with expertise to a judicially monitored, therapeutic 12-month Service Planning Framework and the progress cultivation, extraction and program that uses drug and alcohol National Drug and Alcohol Service Planning processing of cannabinoids (Nov) clinicians and a dedicated social worker, as Model) to outline the optimal mix of services Tasmanian Health Minister Michael Ferguson well as a raft of associated services (AOD required to meet population demands. Key ruled out any changes to the current laws: treatment, parenting programs, housing goals included: "Advice from Tasmania Police is it's not programs, mental health). The program • Develop and commence a pilot necessary and could potentially create a seeks to engage parents whose children community coordination program to new set of problems including opening up have been taken into care due to parental assist people to navigate the mental the risk that people would self-medicate, substance misuse or dependence and uses health, alcohol and other drug service with no licensing or limit to quantity. The intensive case coordination and holistic system; Police Commissioner has said Tasmania therapeutic intervention to address issues of • Increase the proportion of the Mental Police will not seek to criminally pursue substance misuse with the aim of achieving Health Commission budget spent on terminally ill users of cannabis" (Nov). safe and sustainable family reunification of mental illness prevention and mental parents and their children (May). health promotion from 2% to 3%, and Tasmanian Minister for Health released increase the hours of service dedicated report: “Review of Drug Use and Service Sentencing Amendment (Baseline Sentences) Act 2014 adopted: increasing to alcohol and other drug prevention Responses in North West Tasmania.” The from 108,000 to 192,000 hours; & report was commissioned in response to median sentence for trafficking in a large commercial quantity of 14 years • Have established a comprehensive suite reports of increasing drug use, particularly of universal and targeted mass reach methamphetamine in the north west, & led imprisonment (up from 7 years imprisonment) (Aug). campaigns that promote mental health, to stakeholder and community forums and prevent mental illness and reduce review of available data. Key conclusions: Opposition Leader, the Hon. Daniel Andrews harmful alcohol and other drug use • There was very little objective data in announced that, if elected, the Labor Party (Dec). relation to the prevalence of drugs is would put the issue of medical cannabis to available for the North West region; the Victoria Law Reform Commission, with • There is no objective evidence to the aim of finding a path to legalisation of suggest a significant increase in cannabis for medical purposes (Aug 24). methamphetamine consumption in The Coalition Government announced the North West Tasmania; introduction of a Bill to facilitate clinical • Alcohol continues to be far and away trials of medical cannabis: Drugs, Poisons the number one drug of concern, with and Controlled Substances Amendment cannabis use remaining the illicit drug (Clinical Trials) Bill (Aug 28). of greatest use and concern (Nov). Criminal Organisations Control and other Acts Amendment Act 2014 (No. 55 of 2014) adopted. This introduced automatic forfeiture of all property owned or controlled by a person convicted of a serious drug offence (e.g. trafficking in a large commercial quantity) and removed the need for courts to prove an offender’s property came from the proceeds of crime or was used to commit a crime. Exceptions that will not be forfeited include: • tools of trade required in earning income; • property used primarily as a means of transport; • items of necessary clothing (Aug). Reforms commenced to Victorian adult non- residential alcohol and drug treatment services. Key changes included:

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 81 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia • A 24 hour central intake service and referral system; • 16 catchments (9 metropolitan and 7 regional) with localized intake and assessment; • Reduction in treatment types to six different streams (Sep 1). Victorian Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Parliamentary Committee released report on: “Inquiry into the Supply and Use of Methamphetamine in Victoria.” Key conclusions were: • Media accounts of “an ice crisis, epidemic or pandemic” were not borne out in the data; • The prevalence of methamphetamine use had remained stable, but there was a significant rise in the use of potent crystal methamphetamine forms, particularly by youth aged 20-29; Issued 52 recommendations, including: • a methamphetamine action plan; • a Ministerial Council on Methamphetamine; • that any government funded awareness or education campaigns be targeted at current or potential high-risk users; • development of non-tertiary treatment options to respond to users who are not dependent but are experiencing significant amphetamine-related harm; & • expanding the Victorian drug court to Melbourne, Geelong, Sunshine and Gippsland (Sep). Victorian Government launched a range of methamphetamine responses including: • a multi-media campaign targeting youth “What are you doing on ice?” • 11 new Passive Alert Detection (PAD) dogs to help detect clandestine laboratories and dealers in regional and metro Vic • $2.7 million over four years for community skills building forums for families affected by ice • $1.85 million in funding for harm reduction initiatives (Sep). New Penington Institute report released, “Impacts of methamphetamine in Victoria: a community assessment”. The report was commissioned by the Victorian Department Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 82 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia of Health to analyse trends, undertake key information interviews and collaborate with the University of South Australia to undertake the state’s first waste water analysis of the levels of methamphetamine. The wastewater analysis showed methamphetamine levels were substantially higher in Melbourne than in regional Victoria: something which was counter to some key informant perceptions. Report concluded that the perceived methamphetamine problem may be slightly inflated in regional Victoria, but that the methamphetamine issue was genuinely alarming many people and that response systems, on the whole, were not yet able to cope with the scale of the problem (Sep). Victorian government announced it would roll out waste-water drug-testing statewide (Sep). Syringe vending machines commenced (Oct). Research led by the Burnet Institute showed that crystal methamphetamine in Victoria was becoming increasingly bi-modal: with purity either very high (>70%) or very low (<20%). It also showed decreases in methamphetamine purity-adjusted price. It was conjectured that such changes, and not a perceived increase in the number of users, were contributing to the observed rise in methamphetamine-related harms (Oct). Victorian Labor Government elected under Premier Daniel Andrews (Nov). Premier Daniel Andrews launched an ‘ice taskforce’ with 100 days to develop an action plan to respond to methamphetamine in Victoria and intent to introduce four new offences to tackle methamphetamine production and traffick (Dec). Premier Daniel Andrews announced that the Victorian Law Reform Commission had been asked to submit a report in August 2015 to determine not if, but when and how the laws should change to allow terminally and chronically ill people access to medicinal marijuana (Dec). 2013 AIDS Council of South Australia (ACSA) Advocacy Tasmania Inc (ATI) released their New Victorian drug strategy released: WA Health Promotion Strategic Framework closed following withdrawal of funding from Consumer Engagement Program Service “Reducing the alcohol and drug toll. 2012–2016 released (Jan). the SA Government. This also led to closure Development Plan 2013. The priority areas Victoria’s plan 2013 – 2017.” The strategy Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act of the SA injecting drug users group – were: contained a 15 point plan, including: 1981 came into force to introduce a SAVIVE (the South Australian Voice for IV • Consumer capacity building – including • Better referral of drug users to comprehensive definition of drug Education) as it was run through ACSA (Jul). developing and managing a consumer education and treatment, through paraphernalia and new offences concerning Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 83 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia South Australian Injectors Network (SAIN) register detailing consumer contacts and expanding existing court-diversion the sale and display for sale of drug commenced as a new independent unfunded topics of interest ; initiatives and building a more systemic paraphernalia. This extended the definition group; commenced with a facebook page • Service provider consultancy – such as approach to diversion provision: by of ice pipes or cannabis-smoking but no offices (Jul). developing tools to formally measure drug, age and population groups paraphernalia to include “anything made or OCSAR report shows a 75% increase in effectiveness of the consumer • Improved harm-reduction services and modified to be used in smoking cannabis” recorded drug offences in SA between 2007 engagement program; targeted prevention, through increasing and any “device capable of being used for and 2011: predominantly supply/ • Sharing the vision across the sector – the use and availability of naloxone as the administration of a prohibited drug by production. Contrary to declining trend in such as by providing regular updates of an emergency response to opioid means of the inhaling of the smoke or offences in rest of state (Sep). consumer engagement activity across overdose fumes resulting from the heating or burning the sector on the ATDC e-news; Plan also outlined new advisory and decision of the drug in a crystal, powder, oil or base Following a two-year investigation into • Support systems-level consumer making arrangements: form.” It also introduced a separate penalty outlaw motorcycle gangs, the South engagement – including supporting the • A ministerial committee scheme for adults and youth, with more Australian Police has confiscated more than development of a Tasmanian consumer • An executive group (comprising key severe penalties where a person sells drug $150 worth of drugs connected with the organisation (Jan). Victorian Government executives from paraphernalia to a person under 18 years Descendants motorcycle gang. Included: 21 Minister for Health released the first specific Departments of Health, Justice, Human (30 Jan). kg methamphetamine and 21,000 ecstasy Services, Education and Victoria Police) tablets and $120,000 cash (Nov). prevention strategy: “Everybody's Business: Preston Bridge, aged 16, died after he fell A Strategic Framework for Implementing • An alcohol and drug advisory board from a hotel balcony having taken NBOMe Liberal opposition substance abuse Promotion, Prevention and Early • (comprising ≤ 12 non-government (Feb). spokesman Duncan McFetridge announced leaders, experts and stakeholders) Intervention (PPEI) Approaches in Averting WA Government announced the Drug and that if elected they would reduce the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Use.” Key Also outlined was a plan to establish an amount of cannabis for which a person alcohol and drug research and innovation Alcohol Office (DAO) and the Mental Health rationales included: Commission (MHC) would be joined (Apr). received only a fine - and is not charged - • The neglect of prevention, and of the fund with a focus on applied research (Jan). from 100g to less than 25g (Nov). raft of prevention strategies that could Minister Wooldridge released a new Adult First take-home naloxone program The Controlled Substances (Offences) be employed; and Alcohol and Drug (AOD) Screening and established in WA by the Drug and Amendment Act 2013 adopted. Made it an • The potential cost-effectiveness of Assessment Tool designed to minimise Alcohol Office of WA Health and the WA offence for a person to manufacture, prevention (Mar). duplication of screening and assessment, Substance Users Association (Apr). promote, sell or supply “controlled drug New Tasmanian drug strategy released: streamline intake, improve clients’ Social Inclusion Action Research Group alternatives”: substances intended to have Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2013-2018. Key experience, and inform treatment planning, (SIARG) launched first position paper: pharmacological effects similar to a priorities included: referral and pathways. The tool had been “Reducing stigma and discrimination controlled drug or to be a legal alternative • Support preventative and successfully piloted at 8 AOD agencies and relating to alcohol and other drugs to a controlled drug. Maximum penalties developmental health approaches to comprised three steps: (1) a self-complete in Western Australia”. The SIARG was included: alcohol, tobacco & other drugs use; initial screen by the client, (2) formed through a partnership between the • $15,000 and/or 4 years imprisonment • Increase the range and availability of, comprehensive assessment, (3) review. The WA Drug and Alcohol Office and WANADA for manufacturing; and access to, appropriate services for tool will be mandated from 2014 for all with the purpose of planning, implementing • $10 000 or imprisonment for 2 years individuals experiencing problematic Department of Health funded agencies and evaluating initiatives aimed at for promoting drugs use including for individuals with (Feb). promoting the social inclusion of, and Law commenced Feb 2014 (Dec). diverse, complex and high needs; Victorian Police Minister Peter Ryan reducing the stigma and discrimination • Strengthen evidence-based awareness- announced new road laws (‘cocktail’ laws) experienced by people with AOD use raising, education initiatives and early would be introduced for drivers under the problems or those affected by someone interventions in a range of targeted influence of both alcohol and illicit drugs. else’s use(Jun). settings, population groups and The minimum penalty for a first offence will First convictions obtained in WA in developmental transition points (Apr). be higher than the penalty for either drug or connection with Silk Road: two brothers who Department of Health and Human Services drink driving alone: 20 penalty units bought cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis from released a consultation paper entitled A ($2800) and a 12 months license Silk Road were convicted of possessing Continuum of Care to Prevent Youth suspension (Mar). drugs (6.8g of cannabis, 0.7g of cocaine and Offending and Re-Offending (Apr). Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner seven ecstasy pills) with intent to sell and supply (Sep). Report on the Inquiry into alternatives to Andrew Crisp argues there has been too youth detention released by Commissioner much emphasis upon drugs as a law and for Children Tasmania. Key order issue and that the Victorian recommendations for government: Government should treat drugs as a health • Consider the adoption of a Justice issue (Jul). Reinvestment Framework for the youth Victorian Government released a report: justice system in Tasmania; & New directions for alcohol and drug • Establish a youth drug and alcohol treatment services: A framework for reform. Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 84 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia residential rehabilitation service; This outlined why the Victorian AOD • Establish the equivalent of Court treatment system is reforming, the vision Mandated Diversion (CMD) options, for the new system and process for reform focused on and applicable to young (Aug). offenders with illicit drug and/or alcohol Victorian Coalition Government launches problems (Jul). two year naloxone provision and training The Tasmanian Parliamentary Inquiry into program: called the Community Overdose the hemp industry report and Prevention and Education (COPE) program. recommendations were released (Oct). The program is run by ANEX with key goals to: • provide at-risk drug users, family, friends & frontline service personnel (e.g. primary care providers, NSPs and Medicare Local staff) with knowledge and ability to respond to and administer naloxone in the event of an opioid overdose; & • increase GP knowledge of naloxone to support increased prescribing of naloxone to people at high risk of an opioid overdose (Aug). Victorian Parliament commenced a new inquiry into the supply and use of methamphetamines, particularly ice, in Victoria. Terms of reference included to: • examine the channels of supply of methamphetamine • examine the nature, prevalence and culture of methamphetamine use • examine the links between methamphetamine use and crime • review the adequacy of past and existing state and federal strategies for dealing with methamphetamine use (Sep). A multi-agency taskforce involving joint waterfront taskforces in Brisbane (Jericho), Sydney (Polaris) and Melbourne (Trident) and other agencies led to the seizure of more than 200kg of methamphetamine that was concealed in the tyres of a medium sized truck, delivered to Melbourne. Three people were also arrested (Oct). Victorian Government released an Advertised Call for Submission (ACS) for stage 1 delivery of Victorian Alcohol and Drug Treatment Services. Stage 1 focused on delivery of adult non-residential treatment services (Oct). Ambulance Victoria reports that ambulance calls related to ‘ice’ or methamphetamine have risen 110% - from 282 to 592 - between 2010-11 and 2011-12 and that the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 85 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia unpredictable and violent behavior of ice users is causing concerns for ambulance workers (Oct). Victorian Coroners Court data shows that between 2000 and 2010, a total of 120 prisoners overdosed and died within two months of being released from jail, or on a post-release corrections-based order (Oct). Magistrate Tony Parsons of Victoria's drug court calls for the establishment of special drug rehabilitation prisons as per NSW to reduce the rate of overdoses after prisoners are released (Oct). Victorian health officials issued an urgent warning on the use of synthetic drugs after three men were admitted to intensive care with severe health problems (e.g. seizures) after use of a synthetic drug purchased from a sex shop: “Marley” (Nov). Victoria Police data revealed a 8.8% increase in drug offences during 2013: attributed to increased police productivity and increased use/possess of methamphetamine (Nov). Needle syringe program operators report rise in illegal steroid users obtaining free injecting equipment: with steroids now third biggest drug of choice, behind heroin and meth/amphetamines amongst those collecting equipment (Nov). Synthetic cannabinoid “Marley” was added to Schedule 11 of the poisons list: with penalties of up to 15 years prison for trafficking (Dec). 2012 SA Police commenced raids in Murray Bridge Tasmania adopted into law the new Poisons Bans on cannabis bongs entered into force WA Police issued a warning about a new for MDPV and arrested four people (Jan 24). Standard (SUSMP) under the Therapeutic (Jan 1). drug: MDPV (3,4 SA Police investigation targeted at MDPV led Goods Act 1989, including the prohibition of Community Correction Order (CCO) methylenedioxypyrovalerone). They noted to seizures of manufacturing equipment and MDPV: Poisons (Adoption of Uniform introduced, replacing the Community Based that “the substance has been linked to an drugs: two encapsulating machines, 10,000 Standard) Order 2012 (Jun). Orders, Intensive Correction Orders and increase in drug induced casualties in empty capsules, 1250 grams of MDPV, 320g The Alcohol and Drug Service implemented Combined Custody and Treatment Orders. hospitals in the eastern states, including of DMMC, and 300g of Ephedrine (Feb 2). iPatient Manager (iPM), to improve the The CCO is a flexible order served in the reported fatal overdoses in South Australia and Victoria” (Jan 12). New report released by the Office of Crime management of information for clinicians community. All those sentenced to a CCO and Statistics Research: “The South (Jul). must abide by basic conditions such as not New ‘synthetic drug’ MDPV (3,4 Australian drug court: A recidivism study”. Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne reoffending and at least one other optional methylenedioxypyrovalerone) was added to The incidence, frequency and severity of re- released “A Review of Opioid Prescribing in condition e.g. undertaking AOD treatment, Schedule 9 (Prohibited Substances) of the apprehension was analysed for all drug Tasmania -A Blueprint for the Future” (Jul). remain free of drugs and alcohol, be Poisons Act 1964 (WA), making it illegal court participants over a five year period supervised, abide by curfews, undertake from Feb 10. MDPV is structurally related to Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne unpaid community work (Jan 16). cathinone or MDMA and has effects including (Jan 2004-Dec 2008), and compared released the “Tasmanian Opioid amongst three groups: completers, Minister for Youth Affairs, Ryan Smith, anxiety, paranoia, acute cardiovascular and Pharmacotherapy Program, Policy and central nervous system toxicity (Feb 8). terminates and a sample of prisoners Clinical Practice Standards” (Aug). launched the Victorian Government’s Youth generated by the Department of Statement, Engage, Involve, Create. This WA Night Venues and Entertainment Events Correctional Services. Completers performed Discussion paper released: Review of the sought to increase opportunities to engage Project (NVEEP) coordinated by the Drug Tasmanian Alcohol and Drug Dependency Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 86 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia better than the other samples in terms of Act (ADDA) 1968. This sought to critically young people in education and/or and Alcohol Office launched a new reduced incidence of and longer time to re- evaluate the ongoing suitability of the ADDA employment and to build mentorship, links campaign: “Stimulants can mask how drunk apprehension, but there were no significant and to identify a potential way forward, and partnerships between business and you really are” (Feb). differences in terms of the overall frequency including retaining but amending ADDA or philanthropy with young Victorians (Apr). Brochures on the WA AOD treatment of apprehension (May). repeal and move parts of ADDA to existing Victorian Police Assistant Commissioner services were translated into 13 different New report from OCSAR: “Ten years of the legislation (Sep). Stephen Fontana highlighted the frustrations languages: Arabic, Dari, English, French, South Australian Police Drug Diversion The Promotion, Prevention and Early of policing illicit drug use at music festivals Indonesian, Italian, Karen, Kirundi, Somali, Initiative - Data Analysis Report.” Key Intervention (PPEI) Strategic Framework and raves. Following the arrest of 200 Vietnamese, Chinese, Swahili, and Dinka. findings: adopted. individuals for use/ possession at The brochures were developed by the Drug • The no. of diversions has increased Budget Priority Statements 2013-2013 by Creamfields he noted “we are just and Alcohol Office to address known barriers steadily over the ten year period the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs progressively getting more and more and to AOD treatment amongst people from • The compliance rate across 10 yrs was Council Tas Inc (ATDC) noted that while the we are still not scratching the surface.” A culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) 81%, with only a slight drop from incoming year marked the end of the Future total of 190 officers and 7 drug detection backgrounds (Mar). program start (84% to 80%) Service Directions (FSD) funding, dogs were used for the operation (Apr). The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill 2011 • 24% of offenders had been diverted continuation of FSD funding was critical to Operation Permute, a 7 month investigation, came into effect, changing the way in which more than once. (1) maintain the significant improvements in led to 29 warrants being simultaneously courts sentence a person convicted of: • Individuals who comply with their the sector; (2) to enable the remaining executed across the North West a. Selling or supplying prohibited drugs diversion are significantly less likely to planned steps to be implemented; and (3) Metropolitan Region and seizure of 5,200 and/or plants to a child, re-offend - 2 yrs after their first to avoid a significant reduction in service suspected cannabis plants: one of the most b. Manufacturing or cultivating prohibited diversion offence 25% of non- provision. It argued that if FSD funds were significant hauls of cannabis in Victoria drugs or plants in circumstances which compliers had re-offended vs. only cut this would lead to a loss of in excess of Police history. 11 people were arrested (Apr endanger the life, health or safety of a 18% of compliers (May). 20 individuals working in the sector and lead 18). child under the age of 16 years, or Two new reports released from OCSAR on to the closure of at least two ATDC member The Federal Government announced that a c. Manufacturing or cultivating prohibited the “Evaluation of the 6-month drug organisations that provide vital counselling Task Force would be established to examine drugs or plants, or possessing Category treatment program”. Key findings: and case management in the sector (Nov). organised crime on the Melbourne 1 or 2 items (precursors), in • The program completion rate was Minister for Children, the Hon. Michelle waterfront. Operation Trident will begin on 1 circumstances which caused bodily harm 40.1% (and rate of successful O’Byrne MP, initiated inquiry into July 2012, with key members being Victoria to a child under the age of 16 years. completion was 29.5%). alternatives to youth detention, including: Police, Australian Customs and Border These changes in sentencing for a) and b) • The proportion of positive drug tests • the key characteristics and pathways Protection, Australia Federal Police & include the defined penalties of: decreased significantly throughout the that contribute to youth offending – Austrac (May). • suspended imprisonment; program: from 70.1% at baseline to which result in youth detention in • conditional suspended imprisonment; 9.8% after 5 months and 0.0% at 6 Victorian Drug Statistics Handbook: Patterns or Tasmania; of drug use and related harm in Victoria for months. • the role of detention within the • a term of imprisonment. • 54.9% participants recorded no the period July 2009 to June 2010 released. The changes in sentencing for c) [and for continuum of youth justice; & Key findings: subsequent apprehension in the 6 • diversionary strategies, alternatives to subsequent offences under a) and b)] months after leaving, but program • During 2009–10, opioid-related include a mandatory term of imprisonment incarceration and pre-/post-release hospitalisations opioid-related bed days completers were less significantly less support services current in Tasmania of 12 months and 6 months respectively likely to reoffend – 26.3% reoffended and hospitalisations for heroin overdose (Mar 24). (Nov). all increased (by 15%, 20% and 24% compared to 58.5% of non-completers A performance review was released into the First transitional house in the Kimberley (Aug/Oct). respectively). Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services, • Stimulant-related harms were largely opened to assist people receiving AOD Summary Offences (Drug Paraphernalia) Future Service Directions (FSD) 2008/09 – stable e.g. ambulance attendances treatment who are at risk of homelessness: Amendment Bill enacted. Led to banning of 2012/13. decreased by 5%. Milliya Rumurra. Located in Broome, the the sale of drug paraphernalia such as a Key achievements of the FSD were: • The number of cannabis-related house will provide shelter, ongoing case cannabis pipe and bong. The maximum • significant investment and growth in the ambulance attendances increased management, assistance with identifying penalty is $10,000 or 2 years imprisonment public pharmacotherapy program; significantly from 2008 to 2010 (from long term permanent housing, and skills (Oct). • significant investment into the three 675 to 920) (May). development e.g. financial management & community based residential training (May). South Australia Police and the Holden Hill New report released: “Trends in alcohol and Magistrates Court commenced a 6 month rehabilitation services in this State; The 2012/13 WA State Budget was • implementation of a new client drug-related ambulance attendances in trial of an Offence Streaming Model, which Melbourne: 2010-2011.” Showed a 107% announced. Included largest investment in will reduce the time between the alleged information management system and mental health and drug and alcohol services improved reporting. increase in crystal methamphetamine- offence and appearance in court for simple related ambulance call-outs: 282 incidents in WA’s history: $655.2 million. Key matters. The policy was developed in But, it also noted FSD performance was measures included: affected by recruitment issues, internal in 2010-11 compared with 136 in 2009-10 recognition of long delays and inefficiencies (May). • $5 million over two years to trial a new in court system and additional stress this administrative processes and budgetary mental health court diversion and Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 87 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia places on defendants. Trial was extended to pressures. Of note, the uncertainty around New report released: “Victorian support program servicing Perth the Adelaide Magistrates Court in March ongoing funding has resulted in the delay of Pharmacotherapy Review” (Jun). metropolitan magistrates’ courts, which 2013 (Oct 2012). service development activities, including all Minister for Mental Health Mary Wooldridge aims to limit re-offending and improve South Australia Police-Strategic Directions development planned in the fourth year. The released a 'roadmap' for reform: “New mental health. 2012-2015 adopted (Nov). major area that has been affected is directions for alcohol and drug treatment • $2.77 million over four years for drug outreach. and alcohol services to support the The South Australian Naloxone Distribution services.” Principles underlining the new Consequently the review noted there reforms include: long term recovery outcomes for pilot program commenced: an 18 month remains some considerable work to be people exiting alcohol and other drug pilot (Nov). • Person-centred, family and culturally undertaken to fully implement the plan but inclusive, recovery-oriented treatment residential treatment programs and the significant capacity improvements in the – that involves clients in treatment their families. sector will be lost unless ongoing funding is planning and identifies goals, strengths • $1.04 million in 2013/14 to continue secured (Dec). and weaknesses and tailors services to funding the Australian Medical fit needs; Procedures Research Foundation’s • Integrated pathways – that connect Fresh Start Recovery Program, while individuals with services to address work is progressed to achieve health, social or economic needs; registration of the naltrexone implant • Intervention at the earliest possible with the Therapeutic Goods point; Administration (May). • (Multiple) bridges to treatment – from The Department continued to expand its the multiple NSPs and primary health prison capacity to meet the growing demand centres funded throughout Victoria and in 2011-12. Recently completed and current improved screening of forensic AOD construction forms part of the largest clients. building program to be undertaken in WA Key actions in 2012 include piloting common corrections history, including a prison screening and assessment tools across 5 specifically designed for Indigenous treatment sites; the redevelopment of the prisoners. pharmacotherapy system; and expansion of The Illicit Drug Support Plan 2012 – 2015, a access to NSPs and counselling services in supporting document to the Drug and growth corridors and regional areas (Jun). Alcohol Interagency Strategic Framework for 2012-13 State Budget allocated funding for Western Australia 2011-2015, was released. a new 500-bed medium-security male This outlines the priority areas and prison, to be located at Ravenhall in strategies for the coming years. The priority Melbourne’s north-west, and an additional areas: 395 permanent beds at existing prisons • Cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids. across Victoria (Jun). • Amphetamines and ATS (inc ecstasy). Victoria police charged two prison officers in • Heroin and other opioids. connection with an alleged drug ring at the Other focus areas include: Barwon prison (Jul). • Poly drug use. • Other prescription drugs. The Victorian Opposition called for an • Emerging drugs. inquiry into drug trafficking in the state's • Transmission of blood-borne viruses prison system (Jul). (Sep). The Department of Health commenced Two brothers were charged with possession consultations across Victoria about the AOD with intent to sell after being caught with treatment reform. Organisations including multiple packages of cannabis and ecstasy the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug purchased through the online marketplace Association (VAADA) and the Association of Silk Road (Sep). Participating Service Users (APSU) were used to support and co-facilitate input (Jul- The West Kimberley Regional Prison was Aug). opened by Corrective Services Minister Murray Cowper. Informed and overseen by The Youth Cohort Study: Young people's Indigenous people this was specifically pathways through AOD treatment services. designed to be culturally sensitive to Study recruited 150 young people using Indigenous offenders, using for example AOD treatment services (aged 16-21 years) self-care units to enable grouping on the Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 88 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia was completed (Aug). basis of family ties or language (Nov). Roundtable on fentenyl convened by ANEX Mental Health Bill 2012 was tabled in in Wodonga after a surge in overdoses Parliament (Nov). amongst drug users injecting the opiate 2011 Australian School Students Alcohol and (Aug). Drug Survey (ASSAD) survey released: Victorian Alcohol and Other showed a decline in illicit drug use among Drug Treatment Principles WA school students (Dec). Consultation paper released (Sep). The Australian Medical Association and the Australian Greens call for a safe injecting facility in Melbourne (Oct). Amendments to Schedule 11 of the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 added eight synthetic cannabinoids and five synthetic stimulants (including MDPV, 4- MMC/mephedrone and BZP) permanently to the list of prohibited substances. The 8 synthetic cannabinoids were previously subject to a temporary 12 month ban (Nov 8). Victorian Government discussion paper released: ‘Practical Lessons, Fair Consequences: Improving Diversion for Young People in Victoria’ (Aug). Victoria Police undertook a two month operation (Operation TAXA) focused on short term disruption of commercial scale cannabis cultivation. Led to the execution of 48 search warrants, 20 arrests and the seizure of almost 7,000 cannabis plants as well as associated equipment. The operation received significant media attention in Victoria (Aug-Oct). Report from the Victorian Auditor General released: “Prison Capacity Planning”. Key findings: • A 38% increase in prisoner numbers over the past decade (2002-2012) and a heavy reliance on temporary beds has resulted in the existing prison infrastructure nearing its capacity limits. • Male prisoners are more affected: since May 2011, the male prison system has been operating close to or above 95% utilisation. • Overcrowding is leading to adverse effects on other parts of the CJS e.g. increasing prisoners are held in police cells. • Prisoner support programs and health services have not kept pace with the growth in prisoner numbers (due Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 89 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia largely to a lack of funds). • The rate of serious incidents per prisoner e.g. assaults and self- mutilation have doubled. It concluded that the demand pressure on the prison system was unsustainable and that if forecast trends continued substantial investment in prison infrastructure would be required (Nov). Minister Wooldridge released two new workforce strategies: “Victoria’s alcohol and drug workforce framework: Strategic Directions 2012-22” and “Victoria’s alcohol and drug workforce framework: Implementation plan 2012-15” (Dec). 2011 Announcement that from 1 July SA New discussion paper released: Severe Substance Dependence Treatment Mental Health Minister Helen Morton pharmacies would switch from voluntary to “Everybody’s business – A discussion paper Act came into effect, thereby enabling announced that an additional $1.5 million mandatory real-time online reporting of for the development of the Alcohol, Tobacco involuntary drug treatment and detention would be provided to support the work of Dr pseudoephedrine sales. Switch followed and Other Drugs (ATODs) Promotion, for up to 14 days, where this is necessary as George O’Neil’s Fresh Start Recovery concern over pharmaceutical shopping & Prevention and Early Intervention (PPEI) a matter of urgency to save the person's life Programme until June 30 2012. They also recognition only 60% pharmacies reported Strategic Framework” with 6 weeks for or prevent serious damage to the person's announced that independent researchers sales (Mar). public input. Key messages: health (Mar). have been contracted by the State New wastewater study released: “Population • Substance use must be understood New report released by the Victorian Government through DAO to assess steps drug use in Australia: A wastewater within the context of many factors – Auditor-General: “Managing Drug and necessary to progress the application for analysis” A study of 15 sewage treatment cultural, socioeconomic and political – Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Services”. registration of naltrexone implant treatment plants showed temporal and regional that can be influenced by government Report noted that the state allocated $135.7 with the TGA (Mar). differences in illicit drug use in South decisions. million for AOD prevention and treatment Explosion of a clandestine drug laboratory at Australia: MDMA was much more commonly • Government policy responses in relation activities in 2010–11 (81% for treatment & a public housing unit, that injured five detected in regional centres such as Port to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs 19% for prevention activities). Key findings: adults sparked public concern (Mar). have traditionally focused upon Lincoln & Port Augusta, than the city (Apr). • The department has no assurance that Police Minister Rob Johnson announced the individual factors. This needs to be objectives are being achieved. SA announced a ban on the possession, sale broadened. government would crack down on drug or intent to supply of seventeen synthetic • Treatment services remain difficult for manufacturers who expose children at risk • Socially inclusive communities and clients to access and navigate. cannabinoids including Kronic, Spice, Kaos resilient individuals and families are less (Mar). Voodoo, Mango and Northern Lights. Ban • 31 internal reviews have been likely to engage in harmful substance conducted since 1999. But few have WA Police Serious Organised Crime Strategy was introduced by Government Gazette use. 2011-2014 adopted (Apr). (Controlled Substances (Prohibition of been acted on. Potential strategies identified: • The poor track record has resulted in WA Police announced they had cracked a Synthetic Cannabis) Notice 2011), pending • Develop a model/s for cross-sector evaluation of their harmful properties by the scepticism among service providers. major drug syndicate that had been using collaboration to support social inclusion. Key recommendations: the interstate road freight transport industry Controlled Substances Advisory Council and • Support and advance the actions consideration of whether the substances be • Implement a whole-of-government to traffic cannabis from South Australian identified in the National Health AOD prevention strategy into Western Australia. The operation added to the Controlled Substances Act (Jun Preventative Strategy. 17). • Address the fragmentation and conducted with SA Police, Kalgoorlie police • Develop a mechanism to ensure that all inconsistency of service provision. and Australian Customs and Border The Controlled Substances Advisory Council government policy with an impact upon • Revise the treatment service mix so Protection led to the seizure of 29 kg of evaluated the harmful properties of substance use and misuse – e.g. social that services funded align with need cannabis, $25,000 and arrest of three synthetic cannabinoids. The council ruled inclusion, housing,– is informed by an (Mar). truckies and a Gypsy Jokers bikie gang that the harmful effects were similar to understanding of their potential associate (Apr). those of cannabis and hence supported their influence on the substance use (i.e. Sentencing Further Amendment Act 2011 Increased media attention to synthetic inclusion in the Controlled Substances some form of alcohol, tobacco and other adopted. This extended the abolition of cannabinoids, such as Kronic, following (General) Regulations 2000 (using the same drug impact assessment) (May). suspended sentences to a range of ‘significant offences’ including trafficking in a revelations in The Western Australian of threshold quantities as for cannabis). This Launch of statewide Drug Education came into effect 23 Jun (Jun 21). large commercial quantity of a drug of widespread use, especially at mining sites: Network’s resource centre and website. dependence and trafficking in a commercial “One in ten miners uses legal high”. Key The Controlled Substances Advisory Council Website sought to fill need for internet and quantity of a drug of dependence (Apr). evidence put forward was the finding by the also made three other rulings: 24 hour information provision (Jun). GHB overdose victim videoed by Herald Sun WA government drug testing centre, Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 90 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia • To ban the ‘synthetic MDMA-like The Minister for Health approved an at 11am on a Sunday morning, drawing new ChemCentre, that of 80 recent tests of WA substances’ 3,4 extension to the Tasmanian Drug Strategy attention to GHB use in Melbourne. mineworkers an average of 10% across all methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) (TDS) 2005-2009 to the end of 2012 (15 Paramedics confirmed that Melbourne was mine sites and up to 30% across some sites and methcathinone; Jun). the GHB capital, with rates of use increasing tested positive to Kronic. Assertions were • To make prescribed thresholds quantities The Minister for Health approved an in Melbourne but declining elsewhere and made this was in large part because the for all new MDMA-like substances extension to the Tasmanian that ‘drug’ overdoses are at their highest drugs were seen as safe and were not consistent with the existing MDMA Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009 to levels since the heroin epidemic of 1999- commonly detectable (May). prescribed amounts e.g. trafficable the end of 2013. 2000 (Apr). Attorney General announced the provision of quantity = 2g MDPV; A Sunday Herald Sun investigation exposed $3.9 million through the Criminal • To ban MMDMG - a new precursor for The Controlled Drugs, Controlled Precursors and Interpretation under the Schedule of that the Richmond housing estate had Confiscation Assets Program to local manufacturing MDMA. become a public ‘shooting gallery,’ and site governments and non-profit community These came into effect 23 Jun (Jun 21). the Misuse of Drugs Act 2001 was reviewed in the goal of ensuring Tasmania Police had of rampant drug dealing: ‘Shame of our groups to re-direct confiscated assets to 28 The South Australian Alcohol and Other the capacity to appropriately deal with Needle Town’ (Apr). programs directed at drug use, drug related Drug Strategy 2011-2016 was adopted. Five emerging drug issues. This led to After a decade long legal battle Tony Mokbel crime and crime victims (May). key objectives were put forward, namely to: amendments, under the Misuse of Drugs pleaded guilty to three drug charges: Drug and Alcohol Interagency Strategic 1. Reduce illicit drug use and its Order 2011 including: trafficking a large commercial quantity Framework for WA 2011-15 adopted. Five associated harms; • Aligning the Interpretation of the MDMA between February and August 2005; strategic areas were specified: 2. Reduce the rate of alcohol-related Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act urging an undercover police officer to import • focusing on prevention; harm; 2001 to that contained in the Poisons a commercial quantity of MDMA in the same • intervening before problems become 3. Reduce drug-related harm to young Act 1971, in an effort to appropriately year; and trafficking a large commercial entrenched; people and families of those with capture the broad range of derivative quantity of methylamphetamines in the mid • effective law enforcement approaches; substance misuse issues; drugs now entering the illicit drug 1990s. A plea deal reached between the • effective treatment and support 4. Reduce harm from substance market. Director of Public Prosecutions and Mokbel's services; and strategic coordination misuse among Aboriginal people; • Increasing the number of Controlled defence team resulted in him avoiding trial and capacity building (May). 5. Improve the timeliness of Drugs banned under the Act, including on other drug charges arising from four monitoring systems so trends in Young man admitted to Royal Perth Hospital synthetic cannabinoids including Kronic separate police operations dating back to post Kronic ingestion with paroxysmal alcohol and other drug misuse are and Spice, and the Methcathinone 2000. Mokbel has admitted he was the main detected as early as possible supraventricular tachycardia, an extremely derivative drug known as Israelis. man behind the manufacture and fast heartbeat (Jun). One priority action of the strategy was to • Increasing the number of Controlled distribution of the multimillion-dollar drug trial the provision of naloxone to opioid Precursors under the Act, from 13 trafficking enterprise, consisting of at least WA Government became first state to users to assess whether peer administration controlled precursors to 53 controlled 10 people, known as ''The Company''. A announce ban on the possession, sale or can assist in reducing fatal overdoses (Dec). precursors (Aug). spreadsheet of drug transactions between intent to supply of seven synthetic cannabinoids including Kronic, Spice, Kaos A six-month operation undertaken by July 2006 and June 2007, known as ''The First fatal overdose reported from 3,4 Bill'', shows that The Company's gross Voodoo, Mango and Northern Lights. People methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV ). The Tasmania Police uncovered a motorcycle were given four days to dispose of any gang-related methylamphetamine trafficking turnover during that time was more than $4 deceased was a man, aged 40, from Murray million. He was sentenced in July 2012 to 30 supplies, before the substances were added Bridge (Dec). operation worth $450,000. To date 12 to the Poisons Act 1964 on Friday, June 17. offenders had been charged, with further years in prison, with a non-parole period of 22 years (Apr 2011 and Jul 2012). Ban followed a review of harms of synthetic charges expected (Aug). cannabinoids by the Drug and Alcohol Funding was reduced to primary NSPs Long-standing suppression orders that Office, WA Police, Department of Health and through the cessation of provision of free prevented media coverage of Mokbel case the ChemCentre (Jun 13). sterile water (for reasons of cost-saving). for 24 months and the unedited screening of tv show “Underbelly” within Victoria First charge for possession of a synthetic JointForces a quarterly e-bulletin started. removed. Victorian Attorney-General Robert cannabinoid. Man was found in possession This sought to promote cross-sector Clark ordered a review of suppression of 6 gms of Kronic (21 Jun). linkages and collaboration between the orders due to concerns that secrecy may be WA Legislative Assembly Education and Tasmanian Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug undermining the principle of open justice Health Standing Committee completed their (ATOD) and Mental Health (MH) sector (Apr). Inquiry into the Adequacy and (Nov). Yarra City Council voted 6-1 in favour of a Appropriateness of Prevention and trial of a medically supervised injecting Treatment Services for Alcohol and Illicit facility in Richmond’s Victoria street, and Drug Problems in Western Australia. One of outlined intent to lobby for State three reports released was titled: “Changing Government support for a trial (May 17). patterns in illicit drug use in Western Australia” (Jun). Victorian Premier Ted Ballieau said he would Police Minister Rob Johnson announced a Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 91 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia not support the proposal by Yarra Council law and order crackdown: ‘we are declaring for a medically supervised injecting room in war on drugs’ (Jul). Richmond, saying it would send the wrong Labor’s Cannabis Control Act repealed, message and that improved law making it a criminal offence to use, possess enforcement and education were needed or grow cannabis in WA. Under the new laws instead (May 18). people apprehended with up to 10 grams of New measures introduced in efforts to cannabis or a smoking implement may be address drug trafficking and use at the issued a Cannabis Intervention Requirement Richmond housing estate: four new CCTV (CIR) and diverted to a one hour cannabis cameras were installed and a police intervention session. Successful completion command post established (May). will mean the offender will avoid receiving a Bill introduced – ‘Drugs, Poisons and criminal conviction. New laws came into Controlled Substances Amendment (Drugs effect August 1 (Aug). of Dependence) Bill 2011’ – to increase Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill proposed government responsivity to new and by Police Minister Rob Johnson assented to. emerging ‘legal’ substances such as Key aspects included: synthetic cannabinoids. Under the proposal • A mandatory minimum term of 12 the Governor would have regulation-making months jail for any adult found guilty of power to ban substances that are deemed to causing harm to a child during the pose a significant risk to the health of production of illegal drugs; consumers or public safety, for a 12 month • A mandatory minimum term of 12 period, until the substances can be months jail for a second or subsequent proscribed into legislation and offence that exposes a child to harm Commonwealth regulations (28 Jun). during the production of illegal drugs; Development of a whole of government • A comprehensive definition of drug Victorian Alcohol and Drug Strategy paraphernalia and related offences commenced. The objectives were to: (Nov). • Decrease the current rates of alcohol Australian Lawyers Alliance national director and other drug abuse in Victoria. Tom Percy QC labeled the proposed • Reduce the amount of harm that legislation ‘desperate’, ineffective and ‘an alcohol and other drug abuse causes in admission of failure’ of the states inability to the community. control clandestine drug laboratories growth • Increase access to treatment options so in WA (Aug). that people with an alcohol or drug Western Australian Police launched a special problem can get help when they need strike force, Operation Kukri 2, to rescue it. children living among volatile clandestine To enable input into the development, a drug labs (Aug). community consultation document was released: ‘Victorian Alcohol and Drug Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill adopted – Strategy: Community Consultation’ which with the support of both sides of parliament led to over 120 written submissions (Aug). (Nov). Victorian Government established an WA ten year strategic policy for mental independent advisory group to provide health released: “Mental Health 2020: expert advice on AOD issues and to inform Making it personal and everybody’s the development of the new Victorian business” (Nov). Alcohol and Drug Strategy. Advisory group WA Police Air Wing conducted a one week included representatives from: Victoria operation involving reconnaissance flights to Police, Australian Hotels Association, Master locate cannabis crops from the air. It led to Grocers Australia, The Pharmacy Guild of the removal of 1287 cannabis plants from Australia (Victoria), Victorian Indigenous the South West District (Dec). Youth Advisory Council, Australian Drug Foundation, VAADA, and City of Greater Bendigo. Chair: Professor Richard Larkins

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 92 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia (Aug). The Department of Health released the Victorian framework for recovery-oriented practice (for mental health specifically) (Aug). In response to the Momcilovic High Court ruling that upheld the right of the courts to deem sections of the Drugs Act to be incompatible with the Victorian Human Rights Charter the Victorian Attorney- General Robert Clark announced he was considering amending the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 (Vic) (the Drugs Act) (Sep). Amendment to the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 banned the sale, display and supply of bongs in Victoria from 1 Jan 2012. Minister for Mental Health Mary Wooldridge said this addressed a long- standing contradiction in Victorian law namely that it was illegal to smoke cannabis but legal to display & buy bongs (Oct).

2010 SA Police Corporate Business plan Amendments to the Road Safety (Alcohol Opposition leader Ted Bailleau said if elected Reports by the 2008-09 Illicit Drug Data 2010-2011 adopted. Included the strategy and Drugs) Act 1970 were introduced to he would ‘ban the bong’ to send a clear Report that ecstasy pills in Western of focussing on possession and use of illicit increase the penalties for drug driving in message to young people about the harmful Australia had become the cheapest in the drugs (Jun). Tasmania, in-line with penalties imposed for effects of cannabis (Jan). country – at as little as $17 per pill and that Independent MLC Ann Bressington tabled a drink driving offences. Additionally, a person Push by a doctor from the Royal Melbourne there had been 78 clan lab seizures in WA in new bill. The Controlled Substances (Simple who commits any alcohol or drug driving Hospital's neurology department to trial 2008-09 - a 160% increase from 2007-08 Cannabis Offences) Bill 2010 proposed to related offence will be deemed to have Sativex -a liquid marijuana-based mouth (Jun). reduce the expiable amount under the committed a subsequent offence, if that spray- to ease the symptoms and pain of The WA Government announced it was current Cannabis Expiation Notice Scheme person has previously been convicted for MS sufferers. Push followed evidence that establishing a Mental Health Commission from 100g to 25grams cannabis, in an effort either offence (Jan). Sativex could alleviate loss of movement (Feb). to reduce the potential for dealers to avoid Southern District Drug Investigation control & pain & imminent regulatory WA Police commenced use of passive drug criminal prosecution (Sep). Services (DIS) concluded a major approval in the UK & Spain (Jan). detection dogs at entertainment precincts investigation concerning the sale and Evidence from the 2008 Drug Use and train stations. Policy aimed to clamp distribution of amphetamines and cannabis. Monitoring in Australian survey of police down on substance abuse in entertainment The investigation resulted in 14 people detainees reported 48% detainees in precincts (Jul). being charged with trafficking offences, and Footscray tested positive to heroin WA Drug and Alcohol Office along with the 13 people being charged with the sale of (compared to a national rate of 11%) (Feb). controlled drugs (Feb). Road Safety Council and Western Australian Supreme Court of Appeal: R v MOMCILOVIC Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies Review of Opioid Prescribing practices in [2010] VSCA 50 found that s 5 of the Drugs, launched a new drug driving campaign. This Tasmania commenced. The project seeks to Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 campaign will attempt to combat the high reduce the harm caused through the misuse (‘the Drugs Act’), was inconsistent with proportion (1 in 3) of those, either driver or of pharmaceutical opioids in Tasmania Victoria’s Charter of Human Rights and rider, who have died in a car accident and (Aug). Responsibilities Act 2006. The court tested positive for illicit drugs (Sep). New report released: “Tasmanian Drug declared that section 5 of the Drugs Act, WA Drug and Alcohol Office launched a new Strategy (TDS) 2005-2009: Report of which declares that an occupier of premises advertising campaign as part of the latest actions and achievement,” based on in which drugs are found is deemed to be in phase in the Alcohol Think Again campaign. stakeholder consultations with government, possession of those drugs unless he/she It targets the belief that getting drunk is local council and community sector ‘satisfies the court to the contrary’, cannot acceptable and comes at a time where the organisations. Key findings were: be interpreted consistently with “the state is seeing a 17% rise in hospitalisations • The TDS was deemed an important presumption of innocence under s 25(1) of for alcohol-related issues between 2006/07 overarching strategic framework that the Charter". In so doing, the Court rejected Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 93 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia coordinates Tasmanian activity to arguments advanced on behalf of the to 2008/09 (Sep). alcohol, tobacco & other drugs; Attorney-General that the infringement of Cannabis Law Reform Bill 2009 assented to. • The aims and priorities of the TDS were the presumption of innocence by s 5 of the The bill will repeal the Cannabis Control Act considered still relevant; Drugs Act was a ‘reasonable limit [which] 2003 and the Cannabis Control Regulations Yet, concerns were raised about: can be demonstrably justified in a free and 2004, effectively replacing the Cannabis • Limited awareness of the TDS, its democratic society.’ But the court upheld Infringement Notice scheme (CIN) with a significance & relationship to other the conviction against Momcilovic and Cannabis Intervention Requirement (CIR) strategies (especially the NDS & actions concluded that the declaration of scheme. Under the new law offenders emanating from the TDS); inconsistent interpretation under the Charter detected for use or possession of cannabis • That the review was being conducted did not affect the validity of s 5 (Mar). and/or smoking implements can avoid during a very volatile time of national Reports by the 2008-09 Illicit Drug Data criminal prosecution only if: reform; and Report that the price of cocaine in Victoria • They possess up to 10 grams of • The lack of data available to enable a had dropped to $20 (May). cannabis; and more comprehensive evaluation of the Victorian Drug & Alcohol Prevention Council • They complete a Cannabis TDS to be conducted; Intervention Session (CIS) (usually Recommendations were: released the report, “2009 Victorian Youth Alcohol and Drug Survey” which measured within 28 days). • The IAWGD should consider reviewing Key rules include that: its communication strategy and use of and attitudes towards alcohol and drugs among 16-24 year old Victorians. • Those under 18 receive up to 2 procedures; opportunities to receive a CIS; • The new TDS should align with the new Between 2004 and 2009 self-reported lifetime use of any illicit drug decreased • Those over 18 receive up to 1 NDS, even if this means delaying the opportunity. release of the TDS; from 51.7% to 41.3% and recent use decreased from 31.4% to 25.6% (May). The new bill also makes sale of • The new TDS should identify key paraphernalia to a young person subject to performance data, to enable evaluation A public sentencing survey was conducted in a fine of $24,000 and/or 2 years of effectiveness (Aug). response to a Coalition election promise that imprisonment and sale of cannabis smoking The IAWGD sought approval of the Minister they would provide Victorians with the paraphernalia to adults subject to a fine of for Health to extend the Tasmanian Drug opportunity to have direct input into future up to $10,000 (Oct 14). sentencing. The survey was conducted for Strategy 2005-2009 to the end of 2012. Key Project STOP mandated in Western reasons were that this would enable time for one month and used 17 hypothetical case studies including on murder, manslaughter, Australia, requiring all pharmacists to use the IAWGD to progress some matters raised electronic real time recording of in the review of the TDS while national rape and two categories of drug trafficking. The survey generated a total of 18,562 pseudoephedrine products prior to making health reforms were clarified and relevant decisions about the legitimacy of sales of Tasmanian initiatives finalised (Nov). responses and indicated the harshest sentences were reserved for murder and pseudoephedrine-based products. This made The comprehensive review of the Tasmanian drug trafficking in a large commercial Western Australia the second state, Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009 quantity (Jul-Aug). following Queensland to mandate real time was completed and report released: “Report monitoring (Nov). Release of report by the Burnet Institute: on the 2010 review of the Tasmania Pschyostimulants Action Plan 2007-2008.” “The Potential and Viability for Establishing a The review was conducted in two-stages by Supervised Injecting Facility in Melbourne.” the Department of Police and Emergency Report funded by the Yarra Drug and Health Management on behalf of the Inter Agency Forum reviewed evidence from 76 Working Group on Drugs (IAWGD). Key supervised injecting facilities (SIF) conclusions were: throughout the world and concluded the • The aims of the Plan had been met, and facilities led to public health benefits and had helped lead agencies to implement improved public amenity and community & coordinate action to well-being. The report concluded that fixed psychostimulants; or mobile SIFs could be suitable for • The Plan had contributed towards Melbourne. But they recommended that declines in psychostimulant use; attaining SIFs would require an advocacy • Lead agencies generally supported the strategy to gain community and political continuation of the Plan, but there was support and investigation of the viability of also a push to develop a much broader integrating a SIF within existing Victorian illicit drug plan, to account for the harm reduction and treatment services changing drug use trends in Tasmania (Jun).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 94 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia (particularly reductions in Yarra Drug and Health Forum commenced psychostimulant use and increasing advocacy for a mobile supervised injecting harms from other illicit and licit drugs) van for Melbourne. They argued this would (Dec). best meet residential concern about public The IAWGD sought approval of the Minister injection, particularly surrounding the for Health for an extension of the Tasmanian housing commissions in Fitzroy and Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009 to Collingwood (Jun). the end of 2013 (Dec). Statewide expansion of the Court Integrated Cross Sector Bus Tour commenced by the Services Program was announced. This Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Council followed evaluations of the pilot program (ATDC) to improve the capacity and (introduced in July 2006) which showed knowledge of workers in the area of ATOD reductions in reoffending and estimates of and mental health and other community $5 million in savings (up to $5.9 for every sector and government services, through dollar invested) (Jun). exposure to different services and Victoria Police developed a proactive opportunities to network. strategy to address illicit drug use at dance events by conducting a training trial to enable Passive Alert Dogs to detect unlawful use/possession of 1, 4 Butanediol and GBL. Both precursor chemicals were sold and consumed as GHB and had contributed to a recent increase in overdoses in Victorian dance festivals. Victoria Police expanded the provision of Crime And Traffic Connecting on Highways (CATCH) training to law enforcement agencies from other states and territories. Victorian Alcohol and Drugs Association released a report, Review of the cost of Counselling Consultancy and Continuing Care (CCCC) drug and alcohol services, which provides evidence for significant structural underfunding across the Victorian Alcohol and Other drug sector. They recommended a number of measures to address this problem with one being the Department of Health funding the full cost of CCCC (Aug). Inquiry into the Impact of Drug-Related Offending On Female Prisoner Numbers – Interim Report released by the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee. Report showed female prisoners had increased by 27% from 2008 to 2009 (compared to only 3% for males). Concluded this reflected a shift towards increased use of imprisonment as a first resort for females on remand and a failure to recognise that the causes of female drug-related offending are often more complex (than for males), and requires systematic approaches to address frequent histories of trauma, mental health issues and debt (Oct).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 95 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia After a two year investigation targeting a number of alleged organised crime syndicates involved in the production of cannabis, the largest single operation in Victoria Police’s history was conducted. 'Operation Entity' sought to reduce the supply of cannabis through high-level market disruption, and involved: >630 Victoria Police members, Australian Federal Police, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), Office of Public Prosecutions, AUSTRAC, Australian Taxation Office, State Revenue Office, New Zealand Police, Australian Crime Commission and a number of power companies. Police executed 69 search warrants on cannabis grow houses across Victoria; 9296 cannabis plants were seized; 43 persons arrested; millions of dollars in criminal assets have been restrained to date; and a number of ‘Persons of Interest’ were identified by DIAC amongst those arrested (Nov 23). The Victorian Liberal party was elected, under Premier Ted Bailleau under a platform of a tough zero tolerance approach to crime (Dec 2).

2009 Statutes Amendment (Transport Portfolio- Tasmanian Corrections Minister introduced a Victorian Mental Health Reform Strategy WA Premier Mr Barnett revealed tackling Alcohol and Drugs) Act 2009 adopted. perimeter fence and additional sniffer dogs 2009 – 2019 adopted which recognised the WA's drug problem would be at the forefront Legislation increased penalties for in efforts to keep illicit drugs out of Risdon link between mental health and harmful D of his government's agenda, declaring that individuals convicted of drug driving prison (May). and A use, and need for early identification ‘Labor had a tolerance of drug-taking’ … ‘we offences. Under the new law any driver who The Inter Agency Working Group on Drugs of and response to co-morbid problems in are going to change that’ (Jan). has expiated or been convicted of 2 or more (IAWGD) noted that the Tasmania Drug an integrated networked system (Feb). Death of Gemma Thoms, a 17 year drug driving offences in the 5 years Strategy (TDS) 2005-2009 had come to an The Victorian Department of Human teenager, after she took 3 ecstasy tablets immediately preceding the date of end, and therefore needed some form of Services released a “Discussion Paper on the before entering the Perth Big Day Out music application for a new license will be referred review or evaluation, but that the NDS Forensic Drug Treatment System” in the aim festival. Friends said she had panicked at to a Driver Assessment Clinic. License 2010-2014 which would also have future of improving treatment outcomes for the sight of police searching festival goers provision will be refused to any driver found implications for the new TDS remained forensic clients (Feb). (Feb 1). to be drug dependent until such time as under development. It was decided that Newly appointed Victoria Police Media surrounding the death of Gemma they can prove they are no longer while awaiting the outcome of the new NDS dependent on drugs (Mar). Commissioner Simon Overland said police Thoms criticised the heavy-handedness of an initial report of actions and achievements could not win a drug war and he would police at music events and reignited debate Attorney-General Hon. Michael Atkinson would be prepared for Government, based support the decriminalisation of some drugs on the risks of particular methods of drug made the first declaration of a ‘criminal on stakeholder consultation about levels of “if there was evidence that was the best law enforcement, especially the use of enterprise’ under the Serious and Organised awareness and perceived relevance and way to go” (Mar). sniffer dogs (Feb). Crime (Control) Act 2008. The declaration achievements of the TDS (Jun). applied to the Finks Motorcycle club, for First Victorian Amphetamine-Type In an Australian first, WA Police trialed use New strategy released: “Building the Stimulants and Related Drugs Strategy of drug amnesty bins at music concerts. reasons including that members had 173 Foundations for Mental Health and convictions for drug offences (14 May). 2009- 2012 adopted. The strategy has five After 3 mths trial was deemed a failure. WA Wellbeing: A Strategic Framework and priorities: prevention and early intervention; Police found amnesty bins tied up a lot of Control orders against two Finks Motorcycle Action Plan for Implementing Promotion, treatment; workforce development; justice resources and were rarely used (Mar-Jun). club members (Donald Hudson and Sandro Prevention and Early Intervention (PPEI) and law enforcement; and new knowledge Tortani) requested under s14(1) of the Approaches in Tasmania” (Jun). Media reports of brown Afghan heroin on the collection and dissemination (Apr). streets in Perth (Mar). Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act The Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement 2008. Magistrates Court issued court order Twenty-six people were taken to hospital The “Review of Western Australian Drug Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 96 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia against Mr Hudson prohibiting him from Studies released the Review of the Road after reportedly overdosing at a Melbourne Driving Laws” by the Centre for Automotive associating with other persons who are Safety (Alcohol and Drugs) Amendment Act rave on GHB. This followed 30 overdoses at Safety Research identified problems with the members of declared organisations. Order 2005 (the review). A key finding was that a Festival Hall event and 10 at a drug testing kits (the Cozart Drug Detection against Mr Tortani adjourned after he the penalties for drug driving (section 6A) Summadayze music festival (Apr). System). The kits were giving false initiated proceedings in the SA Supreme were lenient in comparison to those for Dutch music festival promoters cancelled negatives, particularly for THC. Given such Court that s14(1) of the Act was invalid drink driving (section 6) (Jun). their upcoming Melbourne rave saying there problems the reviewers recommended (May-Jun). New governance structure amalgamated the were too many people who took GHB at delaying the general roll out of drug driving Adoption of the Controlled Substances Alcohol and Drug Service, Mental Health Melbourne music events and it was testing in WA and that a further 12 month (Controlled Drugs, Precursors and Cannabis) Services, Health and Wellbeing Services, tarnishing the reputation of festival trial be undertaken with new drug testing Amendment Act 2008 resulted in a number Forensic Mental Health Service and organisers (Apr). kits (Apr). of regulatory changes. Legislative changes Correctional Primary Health Service into the Victoria Police commenced a pilot program Radio announcements used to spread to the Schedules of the Controlled Statewide and Mental Health Services Unit aimed at improving the detection of knowledge particularly amongst Indigenous Substances (Poisons) Regulations 1996 Act (Jul). contraband on roads. The program Crime communities about drug diversion programs led to the banning of an additional 60 Transfer of Part 3 of the Alcohol and Drug And Traffic Connecting on Highways in Western Australia. This was designed to chemicals that could be used in illicit drug Dependency Act (ADDA) 1968 to the Poisons (CATCH) brought in an additional $317,000 increase uptake of diversion programs manufacturing. Legislative changes to the Act 1971 passed both houses of Parliament. worth of illicit drugs and other contraband (Apr??). Controlled Substances Act 1984 also created The transferred provisions relate to the over the 6 month trial (July-Dec 2009). Parliamentary inquiry by the Education and new offences in relation to possession of a prescribing and supply of certain More than 100 Melbourne-based drug Health Committee established into the controlled precursor or any prescribed substances, in particular Schedule 8 Adequacy and Appropriateness of Prevention equipment intending to use it to couriers were identified smuggling heroin substances and their prescribing by all from Vietnam for seven major crime and Treatment Services for Alcohol and manufacture a controlled drug (Section 33J) health professionals able to prescribe these Illicit Drug Problems in Western Australia. and possession of prescribed equipment syndicates. The couriers identified by a substances. Also included in the transfer taskforce involving Victoria Police, Australian Terms of reference included establishing the and/or prescribed quantities of controlled was the requirement for notification of drug impact and social costs of AOD problems to precursors without reasonable excuse Customs and Australian Federal Police were dependent persons and the conditions under recruited from the Western suburbs to pay the WA community, the adequacy of current (Section 33LB). Both offences became which such persons may be prescribed training for medical and other health punishable with up to $15,000 and/or 5 off gambling and business debts. Most were Schedule 8 substances under an authority of Vietnamese (Jul). professionals in AOD issues and the years imprisonment (Sep). the Secretary of DHHS. The consolidation of adequacy, accessibility and appropriateness New legislation on sale of equipment for all prescribing aspects of such substances in Report from the Youth Drug Reporting of services for school-aged students, hydroponic growth of cannabis adopted one piece of legislation was intended to System (YDRS) released: “Social contexts of treatment and prevention services (May). (Hydroponics Industry Control Act 2009) in assist practitioners in understanding their substance use for vulnerable 13 –15 year Submissions occurred June 2009-June 2010. olds in Melbourne”. Report sought to the aim of “preventing criminal infiltration of requirements and ensure consistency in Inaugural conference held “Making it the hydroponics industry.” Under the new practice (Sep). enhance understanding of the patterns and meanings of illicit drug use among hard-to- Happen: responding to Alcohol and Other legislation all individuals who buy proscribed An interim review of the actions against the Drug (AOD) issues across the sectors” which hydroponic equipment will have to submit reach youth populations. This identified that Tasmanian Psychostimulants Action Plan substance use played a central role in the brought together more than 500 delegates 100 points of ID at the point of sale and all was conducted at the end of 2009. The from government and non-government hydroponic dealers will be required to lives of young people but that few young review indicated a commitment to the aims people viewed their drug use as problematic alcohol and drug agencies. Conference was ensure all buyers pass appropriate tests of the Action Plan by Lead Agencies and hosted by the Western Australian Drug and regarding their criminal histories. They are and most wanted to be seen as competent, those Agencies reported significant activity not vulnerable (Oct). Alcohol Office, Palmerston Association, also required to maintain records for every against the objectives of the Plan. The Department for Child Protection, transaction involving prescribed equipment, IAWGD extended the Action Plan until Victorian Police expand drug driving testing Department of Corrective Services, and forward all information to the October 2010, in line with the development with provision of extra 25,500 drug testing Department of the Attorney General and the Commissioner of police by way of an online of the next phase of both the National Drug kits and 25 extra secondary testing Mental Health Division (Dep of Health) (11- transaction monitoring system. Legislation Strategy and the Tasmanian Drug Strategy. machines (Nov). 13 May). enacted March 2010 (Oct). A more comprehensive review of the Action Victorian Premier John Brumby promised to WA Liberal party provided $500,000 funding Adelaide Advertiser conducted an Plan was expected to be undertaken in the launch an investigation into claims of for Dr George O’Neil’s struggling Naltrexone investigation into drug consumption second half of 2010 (Sep). increased drug use at the Dame Phyllis Frost clinic on the condition that he appoint an patterns in Adelaide clubs and concluded Centre amid concern about the amount of independent researcher to determine the that “cash-strapped clubbers were shunning contraband smuggled into Victoria's largest steps needed to attain registration of the high-priced alcohol” at bars in favour of women's jail and increasing overdoses Naltrexone implants with the Therapeutic cheaper illicit drugs such as ecstasy (Oct). (Nov). Goods Administration (May). SA Supreme Court decision: Totani & Anor v Launch of a new interactive website Education and Health Standing Committee The State of SA [2009] SASC 301. Declared “Bluebelly” that seeks to reduce harm for Inquiry into the Adequacy and s 14(1) of Serious and Organised Crime users of ecstasy, meth/amphetamines and Appropriateness of Prevention and cocaine. Harm reduction information Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 97 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia (Control) Act 2008 invalid (Nov). including stories and tips is updated and Treatment Services for Alcohol and Illicit Trial of 24 hour needle syringe vending added to collaboratively by hosts and Drug Problems in Western Australia (May). machines commenced at two existing needle registered users (Nov). As part of the 2009-10 budget the WA syringe program sites in Murray Bridge and Victoria Police detectives seized 260 litres of Liberals announced a new Custodial Noorlunga. The 12 month trial involving the a liquid industrial solvent being masked as a Infrastructure Program: the most significant provision of with 8 x 1ml syringes for $2.00 "harmless" party drug by crime custodial expansion in WA history. The was initiated by Drug and Alcohol Services syndicates. A drought of gamma program is estimated to cost $655 million South Australia (30 Nov). hydroxybutyrate (commonly known as GHB, and will provide an additional 1,657 prisoner Serious and Organised Crime (Unexplained GBH, grievous bodily harm, fantasy or liquid beds across the Western Australian prison Wealth) Act 2009 adopted which allowed for ecstasy) had prompted syndicates to turn to system by the end of 2014. As part of this the creation and enforcement of gamma butyrolactone (GBL) and similar two new prisons will be constructed: the ‘unexplained wealth orders’ and chemicals (Dec). West Kimberley Regional Prison (150 beds) amendments to the Criminal Assets Severe Substance Dependence Treatment and the Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison Confiscation Act 2005. Under the new law Bill 2009 introduced for debate. Bill (350 beds) (May). the state no longer had to prove that the proposed to repeal the Alcoholics and Drug- WA police commenced use of sniffer dogs defendant had committed a serious offence dependent Persons Act 1968 and enable the (Jun). in order to confiscate wealth. Instead an detention and treatment of persons with a Discussion paper released by WA Law order of unexplained wealth can be applied severe substance dependence for up to 14 Reform Commission into Court intervention (when current and/or past assets exceed days under the following conditions: programs. Paper recommended and has lawfully obtained wealth) and confiscated • The person has a severe substance asked for comment on the idea of expanding (Nov). dependence; eligibility criteria for drug diversion through Adoption of legislation that included • Immediate treatment is necessary and mainstream courts and drug courts (Jun). urgent to save the person's life or measures to prevent the trafficking of drugs Unlicensed Driving Vehicle Sanctions and alcohol into the APY Lands (Dec). prevent serious damage to the person's health; introduced. Sanctions range from 28 day • The treatment can only be provided by roadside impoundment to court imposed admitting them to a treatment centre; sanctions for repeat offenders including and impoundment for up to 3 or 6 months • There is no less restrictive means duration. Law has potential to impact upon reasonably available to ensure treatment individuals who have their license is provided (Dec). suspended under the cannabis infringement notice scheme. Enacted 1 July. WA Drug and Alcohol Office introduced a bi- annual newsletter summarizing drug and alcohol trends in WA: Pulsecheck (Aug). Northbridge entertainment precinct was declared a “designated public area” within which police could stop and search any person without provision of reasonable suspicion, subject to the adoption of the Prohibited Behaviours Bill. The new ruling was designed to reduce anti-social behavior in the precinct (Oct). New bill introduced (Prohibited Behaviours Bill) to empower police to fight anti-social behaviour and drug offences in WA. The new legislation would mean police could stop and search a person or a vehicle in specifically declared public areas without the requirement that they have to prove reasonable suspicion. It would also mean that the court could enforce two year orders on offenders (anyone aged over 14) who have been deemed to repeatedly engage in Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 98 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia anti-social behaviour including alcohol- fuelled violence, graffiti or inappropriate behaviour in public spaces and publish if deemed necessary the names, photos or description of any offender (Dec). Cannabis Law Reform Bill 2009 tabled. Proposed changes to the law include: • the introduction of a new limit for possession of 10 grams of cannabis or less – down from the existing 30 grams; • a requirement for all first time cannabis offenders (adult and juvenile) found in possession of 10grams of cannabis or less and/or a smoking implement with traces of cannabis to attend a mandatory cannabis intervention session; and • that cannabis cultivation be a criminal offence (Dec). A viral video, called Camel Girl was released onto YouTube as part of the Drug and Alcohol Office’s 2009/10 night venues and entertainment events campaign. It was designed as a ‘cult’ viral video to raise awareness of the importance of drinking water and rehydrating at festivals and received over 45,000 unique views by March 2010 (24 Dec). WA Collaboration for Substance Use and Mental Health (WACSUMH) established to bring together partners in the mental health, AOD, health and other related sectors to progress work around workforce development, the creation of a care pathway and the progression of promotion and prevention initiatives. Guidelines for concerts, events and organised gatherings issued by WA Health, including on crowd dynamics, management of alcohol and drug-related issues (Dec).

2008 Evaluation of the Police Drug Diversion An independent Review of Alcohol, Tobacco Legislation on compulsory drug testing Aboriginal Drug Court day program Initiative (PDDI) was completed. Report and Other Drug Services in Tasmania was within Victoria Police extended to include all commenced at Perth Drug Court. Program showed there had been a total of 4,689 completed. The review identified numerous members in “selected units” e.g. drug ran one afternoon per week and provided youth and adults diverted during the first 4 problems in service provision including squad. New laws were set to commence in dedicated Aboriginal specific rehabilitation years. On average 67% offenders complied, unmet demand, inadequate systems of August (Apr). and counseling options for Indigenous but compliance was higher amongst youth referrals, high rates of take away Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug Quality participants (Jan). and offenders diverted for the first time. Key pharmacotherapy doses and poor patient Framework released. Six core standards Largest domestic seizure of MDMA recorded impacts included short and long term management. The report also identified that were specified for AOD treatment in in Western Australia. The 45kg of MDMA reductions in drug use and offending and the AOD sector in Tasmania had a poor Victoria: powder was shipped from the Netherlands improvements in social functioning. But profile and inadequate systems of data • Consumer Focus (Apr). impacts were not homogenous and in some collection. Key causes were workforce • Evidence-based Practice offenders use and offending increased. shortages, insufficient funds, poor training Joint agency taskforce involving Australian • Continuous Quality Improvement Federal Police (AFP), Western Australia Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 99 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia Evaluators concluded the program appeared and systems of governance and the lack of a • Corporate and Clinical Governance Police (WAPol), Australian Crime successful but also recommended changes statewide client information system. They • Workforce development and Commission (ACC) and Customs seized the including providing feedback to police and recommended establishing a separate A&D • Partnerships (Apr). largest recorded pill-making press in WA modifying the referral system (Mar). unit within the DHHS organisational Victorian Department of Human Services and arrested members of an emerging Amendments to the Summary Offences Act structure, creating a new governance commenced implementation of the ecstasy syndicate, thereby dismantling the 1953 banned the sale of equipment used to system to include NGOs and user input, Victorian Dual Diagnosis Action Plan 2007- intended establishment of a large MDMA lab consume illegal drugs, e.g. bongs, ice pipes significant investment to expand service 2010 (May). in Perth (May). provision and training ($10-15 million per and cocaine kits, and made such offences Victorian Government issued a discussion Needle and Syringe Program Review 2007 punishable by up to $10,000 or two years' year) and the adoption of a statewide client released. Report identified that there had information system (Jan). paper proposing amendments to the Drugs, imprisonment for an individual and $50,000 Poisons and Controlled Substances Act been a 16.5% increase in the number of for a body corporate (Jun). Tasmania Police commenced use of drug 1981 to mandate a sales, storage and needles and syringes distributed between Controlled Substances (Drug Detection detection dogs (Feb). record-keeping regime for nominated 2001 and 2006 and that while Needle Powers) Amendment Bill 2008 adopted, The First Annual ATDC Conference: ATOD precursor chemicals and equipment to Syringe Exchange Programs accounted for increasing police powers to screen for illicit Practice, Integration & Development held. prevent their diversion to the manufacture only 2% NSP outlets they distributed 55% of drugs using drug detection dogs. The Conference brought together policy makers of illicit drugs in clandestine laboratories all needles and syringes. This reflected amendments allowed deployment of passive and service providers from ATOD and (Jun). changing consumer preferences. Evaluators drug detection dogs for general duties: related fields with aim of strengthening identified the need for ongoing training New research confirmed that ambulance (particularly for pharmacies where only 52% screening potential users and dealers inside relationships, identify priority areas and attendances involving gamma- and outside nightclubs, pubs, concerts, building skills and knowledge (Apr). staff were trained) and recommended hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in Melbourne had integrating NSPs in rural/remote areas into festivals and, major sporting events, on $17.1 million allocated in the 2008-09 increased at a much higher rate than board public transport and at train and bus primary health care services and expanding Tasmanian Budget towards implementation paramedic callouts for heroin. The research the use of vending machines (Jul). stations. The amendments also allowed of the recommendations of the alcohol, published in the Medical Journal of Australia police to establish and conduct specific tobacco and other drug services review revealed clear resource implications: 90% Needle Syringe Vending Machines drug-detection screening operations on (Jul). of GHB OD patients were transported to introduced in Geraldton Regional Hospital identified drug-transit routes and to use and Nickol Bay Hospital (Aug). Media reports that Tasmania’s drug hospital vs. 21% heroin (Jun). drug detection dogs, electronic drug WA Liberals elected in coalition with the detection systems or emerging technology, rehabilitation system was in crisis with new The Victorian Ombudsman recommended clients being unable to receive treatment strengthening preventative and detection Nationals and Independents on a mandate e.g. odour-detecting devices & swabbing to repeal the Cannabis Infringement Notice wands to detect for the presence of (Jul). processes in Victorian prisons to lessen the risks associated with contraband, including Scheme and provide a tougher response to controlled drugs, precursors or plants. This First Needle Syringe Vending Machine trialed cannabis (Sep). entered into force Oct 2008 (Jul). in Devonport (Jul). illicit drugs (Jun).

Amendments to the Controlled Substances The Pharmaceutical Services Branch of the Trial of 24 hour Needle Syringe provision in Act 1984 increased penalties against the Department of Health and Human Services St Kilda extended until 2010 (Sep). cultivation of hydroponic cannabis. received funding from the Commonwealth’s Access Point Stimulant Treatment Centres Maximum penalties for cultivation of Health Connect program to develop and established in St Kilda and Fitzroy on one hydroponic cannabis plants increased from introduce a real time reporting system year trial to provide information, advice and $500 to $1000 and/or 6 months (RTR). This project enabled the real time treatment for stimulant users (Sep). imprisonment and sale or possession of secure monitoring of the Schedule 8 A New Blueprint for Alcohol and Other Drug lamps and reflectors used to produce crops medications (such as morphine and Treatment Services 2009-2013 -Client- were made illegal (penalty of up to $10,000 oxycodone) that had been dispensed in centred, Service-focused was released. The or two years' imprisonment) (Jul). Tasmanian pharmacies participating in RTR. blueprint set out the vision to “prevent and New treatment facility opened – the Amata The move from the previously required reduce the harms to individuals, families Substance Abuse Facility – for Indigenous monthly retrospective reporting to real time and communities” by becoming more client people who live or come from the Anangu reporting increased the capacity to monitor centred and service focused by making links Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Region. The the prescribing of these medications (as into, through and out of treatment clearer service provides residential rehabilitation required by legislation) and to provide more and more integrated, and prioritising and a mobile outreach for people who accurate advice to patients (Jul). prevention and earlier intervention, misuse petrol, alcohol, cannabis and other Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services, removing barriers to services and improving substances (Aug). Future Service Directions – a five year plan, the quality, consistency and responsiveness Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act 2008/09 – 2012/13 adopted. Key initiatives of services and interventions. Specified 2008 adopted. Legislation introduced new include: strategies included: provisions that gave the government, acting • Developing a whole of government • Ensuring routine dual diagnosis though the attorney general and state police alcohol & drug harm reduction strategy screening for all young people entering • Establishing a consumer participation treatment Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 100 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia commissioner, powers to declare ‘criminal framework to ensure that consumers • Stronger support and training resources enterprises’: any organisation which have input into the planning, for GPs to intervene earlier and represents a risk to public safety and order development & delivery of services and • Redeveloping funding and reporting of the State and where members associate • Undertaking a review of the Alcohol and systems to promote service flexibility for the purpose of organising, planning, Drug Dependency Act, 1968, to establish and innovation (Dec). facilitating, supporting or engaging in a legislative framework that reflects serious criminal activity. The legislation also contemporary models of service allowed for the introduction of control orders provision (Dec). on individuals to prohibit offenders from associating or communicating with other members of organized crime groups, prohibit possession of dangerous weapons and/or prevent access to specified venues and introduced offences of criminal association (Sep). Amendments to the Controlled Substances Act 1984 made possession of 30 different pieces of equipment involved in amphetamine or cannabis manufacturing or cultivation e.g. high intensity lamps, carbon filters, tablet presses and distilling devices and possession of documents containing instructions for the manufacture or cultivation of illicit substances punishable with $10,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment (Oct). Evaluation of Youth CARDS (Court Assessment and Referral Drug Scheme) showed that during the 13 month pilot there had been very low referrals (only 71, of whom 51 were put onto the program) and only half participants completed the program. But the program was associated with reductions in drug-related harm and reductions in criminal offending (down from 3.1 to 1.5 events in 6 months pre and post completion). The reviewers concluded the program was “likely to meet its objectives,” but questioned the viability given the low referral numbers. This was attributed in part to mixed stakeholders views as to the merits of the program (Nov). South Australia Police adopted their second illicit drug strategy: ‘Illicit Drug Strategy 2008 – 2011’ (Dec).

2007 SA Government requested an assessment of Review of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug New Mental Health and Drugs Division WA Police commenced random roadside the threat posed by organised crime to the Treatment Services in Tasmania commenced operation and the Minister for drug testing for cannabis, amphetamines South Australian community that included commenced. Mental Health convened Victoria’s first drug and ecstasy (May). the identification of legislative barriers that Court mandated drug diversion program taskforce on ‘ice’ and amphetamines to WA Illicit Amphetamine Drug Summit held facilitate organised crime. introduced (Aug). guide the State Government’s strategy to identify and develop strategies to respond (Mar) SA Premier Rann unveiled his intention to Tasmanian Psychostimulants Action Plan to amphetamines (3 July). introduce a comprehensive set of laws 2007-2009 adopted to reduce supply & Discussion paper released titled “Towards a WA Illicit Amphetamine Summit – designed to make a major dent into demand of psychostimulants and develop New Blueprint for Alcohol And Other Drug Government Action Plan adopted. Included Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 101 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia organised crime in South Australia. The guidelines for safer environments of use (AOD) Treatment Services” (Mar). 49 initiatives arising from Drug Summit. proposed set of laws covered more coercive (Nov). Earlier identification of drug harms project Review of Cannabis Infringement Notice (CIN) powers of investigation, confiscating The Tasmanian Sexually Transmissible (EIDHP) commenced by the Turning Point scheme tabled in WA Parliament. Review unexplained wealth, laws against association Infections and Blood Borne Viruses Action Alcohol and Drug Centre. The project sought recommended continuing with the CIN with criminal members and toughened Plan 2007 – 2008 was endorsed by the to provide an early warning system to scheme, but expanding the scheme to controls on precursor chemicals and Minister for Health and Human Services, Victorian policy makers through an juveniles (with compulsory cannabis equipment for drug manufacturing (Jul). with the goal of minimising the transmission information collection system that on a bi- education), reducing the quantity of cannabis South Australia Police announced the of HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B and monthly basis draws together insights from to which the scheme applied (from 30 to 15 creation of a Crime Gang Task Force to other drug related harms to injecting drug interviews with key stakeholders and grams), removing eligibility for cultivation of enforce the states new organised crime laws users and to the wider community. A surveillance data including ambulance any plants, and increasing fines for non- (Aug). number of initiatives commenced at Needle attendances, treatment data and the pattern compliance (Nov). and Syringe Program (NSP) contact points of needle and syringe distribution (Mar). Criminal Code Amendment (Drink and Food to improve the provision of education, brief Victorian Government released report on Spiking) Bill 2007 adopted. Bill created a new intervention and referral for people who “Dual diagnosis: Key directions and offence of spiking a person’s drink or food with inject drugs. These include increased priorities for service development” (Jun). an intoxicating substance with intent to harm education and training of NSP workers, the the person (maximum penalty 3 years implementation of operational guidelines Victoria Police adopted an Illicit Drug Strategy 2007-2011 involving three imprisonment or 12 months and a $12,000 and practice standards throughout NSP fine for summary offence) (Nov). primary outlets, and improved permit approaches: disruption; targeting repeat training and accreditation for NSP workers. offenders; and reducing re-offending Under the plan DHHS also provided hepatitis through the use of treatment and diversion C blood awareness and drug safety programs. The strategy outlined the need education in prisons, youth detention for new tools to facilitate planning and facilities, schools, and to people from performance monitoring. These included a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) drug attribution model (to collect and backgrounds. DHHS continued to support analyse information on the drug problem) the Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) with and a drug harm index (to quantify the an addition to the program on Hobart’s amount of harm being caused by drugs) Eastern Shore and a trial of needle and that were proposed to be developed in the syringe dispensing machines in Devonport first year of the strategy (Jul). and Invermay rolled out in 2008-09. Discussion paper released on the “Victorian amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and related drugs strategy 2007–2010” (Sep). After six years of negotiation on drug testing, the Police Regulation Amendment Bill 2007 was adopted. Bill gave Victoria Police Commissioner the restricted power to drug and alcohol test Victoria Police members, but only following critical incidents e.g. police shootings (Oct). A review titled “Ecstasy, ketamine & GHB: A review of users and Victorian alcohol & other drug treatment interventions” identified current treatment EKG related interventions and barriers to seeking interventions. The research identified that while EKG users had sought treatment for other drug use, they did not see their use of EKG as a problematic. Service providers reported that infrequent contact with these clients reduced the capacity of treatment services to provide information to this group on the long term effects of EKG (Nov). Trial of 24 hour Needle Syringe provision at Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 102 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia Health Information Exchange, St Kilda (Nov). Victorian Drug and Alcohol Prevention Council (VDAPC) established to provide expert advice to government. VDAPC succeeded the Premier’s Drug Prevention Council (PDPC) which finished in March 2007 (Dec).

2006 SA Police commenced random roadside drug Tasmanian Law Reform Institute published a Victorian Drug Strategy 2006-2009 adopted testing for cannabis and amphetamines report titled “The Establishment of a Drug CounsellingOnline, an online counseling (Jul). Court Pilot in Tasmania” which examined service for drug users, family and friends, whether Tasmania needed a drug court. was piloted by Turning Point Alcohol and Report concluded that Tasmania should Drug Centre (May). adopt a drug court as well as a comprehensive range of diversionary Roadside drug testing made permanent options (Nov). following success of pilot and extended to include testing for ecstasy (Jun). Hobart City Council’s second AOD strategy adopted: “Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy Evaluation of Connect Us (an early 2006 – 2009”. intervention partnership program for at risk youth) found 80% of youth were engaged post program participation, 42% in employment or apprenticeships and 38% in education (Oct).

2005 Evaluation of first set of Drug Summit Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2005-2009 (TDS) Victorian Government GHB education Western Australian Drug and Alcohol Initiatives completed. Concluded 2/3 adopted. Strategy priorities community initiative (Mar). Strategy 2005-2009 adopted initiatives had proceeded well and that safety, prevention and reduction and Amendments to the Drugs, Poisons and HStrong Spirit Strong Mind- WA Aboriginal initiatives had added value and capacity in improved access to treatment. Controlled Substances Act banned the Alcohol and Other Drugs Plan 2005-09H SA response to drugs. Also noted need to On 1 July new legislation was enacted display or sale of cocaine kits and imposed adopted improve management (Feb). creating an offence of driving a motor penalties of $6,300 for individual offenders Baseline evaluation of Cannabis South Australian Drug Strategy 2005-2010 vehicle with illicit drugs in the body. The or $31,500 for businesses (May). Infringement Notice Scheme completed adopted (Feb). Road Safety (Alcohol and Drugs) Victoria Police Organised Crime Strategy Amendment Act 2005 provides authority for Conditional Suspended Imprisonment Order SA Justice Portfolio Drug Indicators Project – 2005-2009 introduced. Core aims were: (CSI) for use in drug court introduced (May) first annual report released. This identified police to conduct oral fluid (saliva) tests on developing a greater capacity to identify, five performance targets: drivers (roadside drug testing) to detect the measure, prevent, disrupt and deter Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act • Increased resilience of SA youth; presence of cannabis and amphetamines organised crime; and better focusing 1981 and Misuse of Drugs Regulations 1982 • Prevention of illicit drug use; (Jul). resources and powers on major criminal increase regulation of the supply of • Reduce drug related offending and threats (Dec). precursor chemicals and apparatus. This severity of offending; gave legislative backing to a previously • Ongoing reduction in overdose rates; & voluntary Code of Conduct to minimise the Reduction and interruption in supply (Mar). risk of diversion of precursor chemicals and apparatus for the manufacture of illicit Youth CARDS (Court Assessment and drugs. Referral Drug Scheme) introduced (Nov).

2004 SA Parliament Legislative Review Final evaluation of the VGDI (Feb). Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme Committee released report on the Koori Drug Diversion introduced introduced, for use or possession of up to Cannabis Expiation Scheme (Regulations 30g cannabis, possession of a smoking under the Controlled Substances Act 11 people were taken to hospital after implement or cultivation of up to 2 non- 1984 and 2002). Report considered overdosing on GHB, Gamma hydroponic cannabis plants. Under the whether a one non-hydroponic plant limit Hydroxybutyrate, at the Two Tribes dance scheme eligible offenders will have the undermined the original intention of the party at Rod Laver Arena (Mar). option to avoid a criminal conviction by CEN scheme. The committee concluded it Use of drug detection dogs in nightclubs paying a fine or attending a cannabis didn’t since it enabled an average user to piloted by Victoria Police (May). education session. Failure to pay will result produce enough to supply them for a Report on Rural and Regional Service in a further fine and/or suspension of drivers year, but also reduced risk of exploitation Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 103 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia by crime syndicates (Feb). System Review released: “Rural pathways: license (Mar). CARDS (Court Assessment and Referral A review of Victoria’s drug treatment system YPOP (Young Person’s Opportunity Program) Drug Scheme) introduced (Jun) in rural and regional Victoria” (Jul). and IDP (Indigenous Diversion Program) South Australian Network of Drug and Report on Victoria’s youth drug treatment introduced Alcohol Services established as peak body system released: “Youth Service System for drug and alcohol NGOs in SA. Review” (Sep). Transport Accident Commission commenced anti-drug driving advertisements (Nov). Victoria Police commenced a pilot of roadside drug saliva testing for cannabis and amphetamines. Pilot targeted heavy vehicle drivers, rave party patrons and general public (Dec). Evaluation of the Victorian Dual Diagnosis Initiative (VDDI) found that the VDDI’s effectiveness was strongly supported by stakeholders. Evaluators recommended a number of changes including that a strategy be developed for promoting the VDDI at sector management and policy levels, that specific formal requirements be adopted regarding use of the VDDI by agencies and that there be improved upskilling and training of the workforce.

2003 Initial Criminal Justice Illicit Drugs Voluntary agreement adopted between the Cannabis Control Act 2003 amended the Performance Indicators report presented to Victorian Government, Australian Hotels Misuse of Drugs Act 1981 to allow cannabis the Criminal Justice Leadership Group Association, the Nightclub Owners infringement notices to be issued (Jan) (May). Association and Restaurant and Catering POP (Pre-sentence Opportunity Program) SA Government expanded response to drug Victoria to provide free or low-cost drinking introduced (Mar) water on licensed premises (Jun). summit: another 14 initiatives and $1.86 PSO (Pre-Sentence Order) for use in drug million (Sep). Koori Alcohol and Drug Plan 2003-04 court introduced (Sep) released as precursor to a strategy (Sep). STIR (Supervised Treatment Intervention First Service System Review (SSR) of Regime) introduced (Nov) Victoria’s drug treatment system completed. Connect Us (an early intervention partnership program) initiated and funded through the Premiers’ Drug Prevention Council in the aim of identifying at risk youth aged 16-21. The 12 month program aimed to engage young people in education, training and employment and thereby prevent problematic drug use and minimise risk taking behaviour.

2002 SA Labor Party elected (Feb) Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council, Drug Court introduced (May) WA Drug and Alcohol Strategy 2002-2005: SA Premier announced the Social Inclusion Tasmania (ATDC) established (12 Sep). Rural Outreach Diversion introduced Putting People First adopted (Aug) Initiative and established a Social Inclusion Preliminary Evaluation of the VGDI 2000 (Dec) -The Criminal Property Unit (located in the Department of Premier concluded with positive results – 30 Confiscation Act 2000 (CPCA) - permits the and Cabinet) to adopt a more integrated initiatives implemented (Oct). State to apply to have all assets of a and effective response to complex issues. convicted drug trafficker seized.

One of first target areas was drugs (Mar).

SA Police launched the ‘SAPOL Illicit Drug Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 104 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia Strategy – Preventing drug use – reducing crime.’ This was the first drug strategy adopted and recognized the strong links between drugs and crime and need for coordinated action (May). SA Drug Summit held. Summit was preceded by 24 community consultations across the State with 917 people participating. Summit identified new directions for SA, particularly regarding responses to amphetamines and processes of reintegrating drug users. Gave rise to 51 recommendations (24 – 28 June). SA Justice Portfolio Drug Indicators Project initiated to identify potential performance indicators to measure success in “protecting the community from the consequences of drug trafficking and abuse” (Jul). CEN scheme amended through Controlled Substances (Expiation of Simple Cannabis Offences) Regulations 2002 (No. 170 of 2002) which maintained a limit on one plant for personal use but banned cultivation of hydroponic plants (Sep). Initial response of SA Government was devised by the Social Inclusion Board. It was outlined in the “Tackling Drugs – Government and Communities Working Together” report and included 7 priority areas e.g. building resilience in young people and increased support for Aboriginal people, 21 initiatives and provision of $12 million for first four years. Also established an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by Hon Led Stevens to implement initiatives. Response was devised by the Social Inclusion Board (Dec).

2001 COAG-IDDI agreement signed and SA Police Tasmanian Drug Strategic Plan (TDSP) Safe Needle Disposal Strategy launched Trial of needle and syringe vending machine Drug Diversion Initiative (PDDI) introduced 2001–2004 adopted. including a syringe help-line (Jan) in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital (Mar) (Jun) Hobart City Council adopted its inaugural Cautious with Cannabis education session WA Community Drug Summit. Cannabis Expiation Notice Scheme amended AOD strategy: “Drug and Alcohol Strategy developed at Moreland Hall for Cannabis Recommended new governance structure, (Controlled Substances (Expiation of Simple 2001”. This coincided with a period of Cautioning referrals (and other referrals) increased early intervention, more Cannabis Offences) Regulations 1987): heightened concern over youth illicit drug Victoria Government allocated $2 million to treatment, particularly detoxification and to Number of cannabis plants attracting a fine use. develop a Koori drug and alcohol strategy look at ways of introducing a new reduced from three to one (Nov) and established a Koori Drug Strategy prohibition with civil penalties scheme for Advisory Committee (KDSAC) to undertake cannabis use/possession (13-17 Aug). the development (Sep). WA Government established Working Party Two reference groups were established into on Drug Law Reform chaired by John Prior Temazepan Injecting (with Victorian Drugs to examine how to set up prohibition with Policy and Services Branch). civil penalties scheme. Kit on problem and dangers of Temazepan Evaluation of the Needle Syringe Vending Injecting mailed out to each Victorian doctor Machine at Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 105 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia and pharmacy. Kit urged them to stop reported an increase in the number of prescribing and supplying temazepam gel fitpacks dispensed, no change in the capsules because of health risks if injected numbers discarded and a decrease in the (Nov). number of people entering the hospital at Victorian Dual Diagnosis Initiative (VDDI) night. established to support the development of New Drug Aware website, funded by the better treatment practices and collaborative Drug and Alcohol Office, piloted for young relationships between drug treatment and people wanting credible online information mental health services. The initiative on drugs (2001), commenced with four small Dual Diagnosis teams covering the state.

2000 South Australia’s Drug Court commenced Tasmanian Government signed the COAG- Drug Policy Expert Committee (DPEC) COAG-IDDI agreement signed and All Drug (May) IDDI agreement and introduced Police Drug released report. Concluded that community Diversion (police scheme) launched (Oct) Illicit Drug Working Party established by the Diversion Program (Feb) support for a trial injecting facility was high WA first Drug Courts launched (Drug Court Health Department to develop a Visit from the International Narcotics Control in all locations with the exception of Regime and Children’s Court Drug Court) comprehensive approach to illicit drug Board to inspect poppy industry (Apr) Dandenong and recommended proceeding (Nov). with trials (Mar) issues. Therapeutic use of cannabis investigated by First mobile NESP site opened in Bunbury. Resident group Footscray Matters called for Parliament of Tasmania, Committee on Launch of NVEEP (Night Venues and Community Development a referendum on trials and said Government was ignoring community views. Traders – Entertainment Events Project) a project Myer and David Jones – said they were aimed at preventing alcohol and drug- likely to leave if city didn’t become a drug related harm at entertainment events and free area (Jun). venues in WA. NVEEP is a joint project between the Drug and Alcohol Office (DAO), Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Racing Gaming and Liquor, WA Police, (Injecting Facilities Trial) Bill 2000 (Vic) Nightclub Owners’ Association, Australian introduced into parliament (Jun). Hotels Association, Events Industry Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Association and the National Drug Research (Injecting Facilities Trial) Bill 2000 (Vic) not Institute. Specific aims included: developing enacted after the opposition announced it and implementing venue practices and would vote against the bill (Aug) policies that promote responsible attitudes Victorian Labor Government made towards drugs; and implementing commitment to expand methadone and drug environmental strategies to reduce drug- diversion and signed the COAG-IDDI related harm. agreement (Aug). The Criminal Property Confiscation Act 2000 Drug Policy Expert Committee (DPEC) (CPCA) - permits the State to apply to have released second stage report. This all assets of a convicted drug trafficker suggested need for significant reform in seized. This was the first state to introduce Victorian drug strategy and outlined a such a law (Dec). framework for future development including the development of a Koori drug and alcohol strategy (Nov). Victorian Government adopted Victorian Government Drug Initiative (VGDI) and committed $77 million in funding for period 2000/01 – 2002/03 (Nov).

1999 Evaluations of the CEN scheme Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett announced Government announced intention to demonstrated evidence of net-widening and support for heroin trial (Jan) establish a drug court. suggested that some people were exploiting Herald Sun newspaper introduced a “heroin Second action plan, ‘Together Against Drugs the scheme by cultivating and selling toll” – a daily toll of the number of drug Strategy 1999–2001’, launched. cannabis. overdose deaths in Victoria. The heroin toll Cannabis Expiation Notice scheme ran alongside the toll of road crash deaths in amended: Number of cannabis plants Victoria in every Herald Sun newspaper Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 106 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia attracting an expiation notice reduced from (Feb). ten to three (Jun). Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett held a premiers meeting involving the NSW, SA and WA Premiers and ACT health minister on heroin trial (Mar) Victorian Election – New Labor Government. Incoming Labor government made a commitment to examine feasibility of establishing five supervised injecting facilities in areas known for drug use – inner city Melbourne, Collingwood, Fitzroy, Dandenong and St Kilda (Sep). Drug Policy Expert Committee (DPEC) appointed under the Chair Dr David Penington to consult with proposed locations and to assess the feasibility of implementing a trial (Nov).

1998 First South Australian Drug Strategy, ‘A TASTE – a drug user magazine established. Cannabis Cautioning Program state-wide Trial of cautioning and education system for Time to Act’ released and Illicit Drug Diversion Pilot commenced – simple cannabis offences launched. Victoria Police (Sep) Court Referral & Evaluation for Drug Intervention and Treatment (CREDIT) Trial (Nov)

1997 Cannabis Expiation Notice scheme modified User group established - Tasmanian Users Cannabis Cautioning Program trial – Victoria WA first Drug Strategy, ‘Together Against by the introduction of the Expiation of Health + Support League (TUHSL). Police (July 1997 to Jan 1998) Drugs,’ released Offences Act, 1996. This introduced a range Victorian Parliamentary Drugs and Crime WA Drug Abuse Strategy Office formed of options for payment of expiation fees Prevention Committee (PCPC) Report including payment by instalments and Western Australia’s heroin overdose concluded there was “some merit in suitably prevention strategy initiated community service, enabled those served regulated and controlled safe houses” for with an expiation notice the option of injecting First fixed NESP site opened in Perth (Sep). choosing to be prosecuted in order to contest being given the notice and Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) introduced automatic criminal convictions commenced in Victoria, collecting data on for those who failed to expiate (Jan). illicit drug market trends Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) Community Offenders Advice and Treatment commenced in SA, collecting data on illicit Service (COATS) established as a brokerage drug market trends service, to increase access for forensic clients to drug and alcohol services. A series of eight unusual deaths sparked media attention. The deaths occurring The Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS) between 1995 and 1997 were originally was established to increase access and attributed to use of ecstasy (MDMA). engagement of young people in drug Forensic analysis revealed they all deaths treatment, rehabilitation and outreach followed use of PMA services. (paramethoxyamphetamine), a much New surveillance project commenced: stronger variant of ecstasy. “Surveillance of drug related events attended by ambulance in Melbourne.” Run by Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre the project uses ambulance patient care records to collate information on drug- related events (both illicit and licit) attended by Melbourne ambulances.

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 107 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia

1996 Heroin overdose prevention strategy Tasmania’s first Drug Strategy adopted Premier’s Drug Advisory Council Report – New user group established – Western established Alcohol and Drug Foundation of Tasmania, recommended cannabis decriminalisation Australia Substance Users Association peak body for NGOs disbanded and diversion (Mar) (WASUA) (May). Interdepartmental Committee on Drugs and Cannabis decriminalisation failed to win Drug Aware program, funded by the Drug Alcohol established support – liberal backbenchers opposed and Alcohol Office, commenced to provide (Jun) young people with prevention and harm

Turning the Tide – Victorian Drug Strategy reduction messages about illicit drug use. released. Included $100 million over three years for a range of projects (Jun) Victorian Government introduced new parliamentary committee - Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (PCPC) – to oversee implementation of Turning the Tide and inform public debate on current issues (Dec)

1995 Select Committee report recommended Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre Premier’s Task Force on Drug Abuse streamlining the Cannabis Expiation Notice commenced service provision established in Premier’s Department scheme Premier’s Drug Advisory Council (PDAC) established to examine drug use, with a focus on illicit drugs (chaired by Professor Penington)

1994 First Specialist Methadone Services (SMS) Amendments to The Poisons Act 1964 established in Victoria legalised the provision of needles and syringes to drug users

1993 Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Council (ADAC) Introduction of HIV/AIDS Preventive More spending cuts to health announced - established (Feb). Measures Act established regulatory $381.7 million over two years (Apr) framework for NSPs in Tasmania - (Needle Public Sector Management Act 1992 Availability Program) introduced. Key changes: First official Needle and Syringe Exchange • Public Service Act 1974 repealed Programs introduced • the Premier became the employer of all Methadone Program rolled out state-wide department heads post favourable review • no. of government departments reduced from 22 to 13, (then to 8 in 1996). Led to merger of Health and Community Welfare Services to “Health and Community Services” • employment contracts became limited- term and able to be terminated with 4 wks notice (Nov)

1992 Pilot Tasmanian Methadone Program (1 Dec) Liberal government elected under Premier Jeff Kennett (Oct) Large scale spending cuts and public service redundancies commenced across areas of health and education (Oct)

1991 Select Committee established to report on Redevelopment of specialist treatment drugs of dependence services began under Labor government User group re-established as South Australia Voice for Intravenous Equity (SAVIVE)

1990 Formation of the Western Australian Lions Drug Education Foundation

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 108 Year South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia

1989 First SA Needle and Syringe Exchange First Victorian Needle and Syringe Exchange Programs introduced - Clean Needle Programs introduced Program (NSP)

1988 User group - IV League of South Australia formed

1987 User group - Victorian Intravenous AIDS User group - Western Australia IV Equity Group (VIVAIDS) launched (Aug) (WAIVE) formed First Needle and Syringe Exchange Programs established in WA (Jul)

1986 Cannabis Expiation Notice (CEN) scheme introduced for minor cannabis offences. Enabled use of infringement notices for simple cannabis offences including cultivation of up to ten plants for personal use.

1985 Victoria’s first Drug Strategy released Start of the official Victorian Methadone Program

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: [email protected] 109